MJA and MBC condemn attacks on journalists

Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) and Maldives Broadcasting Commission (MBC) have condemned the attacks on journalists of Sun Online and VTV during the police operation to arrest former President Mohamed Nasheed.

MJA said in a statement issued today that the attacks on Sun Online journalist Murshid Abdul Hakeem and VTV cameraman Rilwan Moosa are attacks directed at the media, and condemned the ‘cowardly’ attempts to obstruct freedom of press.

MBC also condemned both attacks in similar terms.

“This is a cowardly, derogatory attempt to obstruct freedom of press. We call on relevant authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice. We also urge political parties and members of the public to cooperate, and facilitate the opportunity for the media to operate independently,” MBC said in its statement.

Sun Online journalist Murshid was attacked while he was covering the incidents near former President Mohamed Nasheed’s residence, Canaryge. The attackers assaulted Murshid, tore his shirt and stole his phone.

VTV cameraman Rilwan was also attacked while he was at the same area. The attackers destroyed his camera and stole the memory card in the camera.

Rilwan told Sun Online that he recorded the attack on Murshid on his camera, and that he was probably attacked for this reason.

Both journalists sustained serious injuries in the attacks.