Unrest in Mal

Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) took to the streets last night as well, for Direct Action.

Crowds began gathering at around 21:00 at the junction of Chaandhanee magu and Fareedee magu.

As usual the protest was anything but peaceful, with protesters throwing stones, water bottles and pepper water at the Police.

The window of Fresh Air shop on Chaandhanee magu was broken during the protest.

As the unrest increased, about six Police officers including a female officer had to be treated for getting pepper water in their eyes.

After giving several warnings, the Police commenced operations to break up the protest at around 00:45.

As the crowds were dispersed, a group of protesters assaulted an elderly man near Local Market and pushed him into the sea. Eyewitnesses told Sun Online that the victim had passed a comment in disapproval of the protest. The man was saved and taken to the hospital by the Police.

At around 02:30, a Police motorcycle passing Le Cute shop was stopped and torched. The fire was controlled later by Fire and Rescue. The motorcycle was completely burnt, and one person was arrested in relation to this crime.

Several people were arrested at last night’s protest for creating violence and disobeying Police orders.

A demonstration took place in Hulhumalé as well last night, sparked by the arrival of President Dr Mohamed Waheed to open a Dialysis Centre at Hulhumalé Hospital. MDP supporters protested near Hulhumalé Hospital.

Last night was the fifth consecutive night of Direct Action protests by MDP. Spokesperson of MDP Imthiyaz Fahmy has earlier stated that the protests will continue until the government is overthrown.