The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has pledged to reaffirm the commitment to promote the fundamentals of free press, says Commissioner of Police, Mohamed Hameed.

In a statement issued in commemoration of the World Press Freedom Day 2020, CP Hameed stressed on the importance of press freedom for the future peace, justice and human rights for all.

He went on to note that the police remains committed to stand together and improve their relations with Maldives media.

The statement goes on to read that the police is thankful to the media for their “diligence” in providing verified, scientific and authentic news in order to keep the Maldivian community “well-informed”.

Shedding light on the good relationship maintained and continue to be maintained with the media, CP Hameed extended “sincere respect” and gratitude to all the brave and strong journalists for their “exemplary service” to the island nation.

The monumental day is marked every year and this year’s theme is “Journalism without fear or favour”.

The Police Commissioner’s message comes at a time the authority has come under fire after the general public has been accusing them of providing inadequate information regarding the current situation of the country.

Media personnel were subject to violence and challenges during the tenure of incarcerated former president Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom. As such, media personnel working in the frontlines to cover opposition protests were attacked and hindered from doing their duty, by police officers. While some of their equipment were damaged during these risky protests, some journalists were also taken into police custody.