MMC condems use of excessive force by the Police against journalists covering last night's protest

Maldives Media Council (MMC) has condemned the use of force against journalists by the Police during the peaceful protest staged by the opposition coalition last night.

In a statement released today – MMC stated that they have received complaints from both journalists and media outlets – stating that some of the journalists who were covering last night’s protest have sustained various injuries consequent to the use of force by the Police in dispersing the protestors.

They further added that the Police obstructed some journalists’ coverage of the protest – and that complaints had been received with photo and video evidence that accusing the Police of using excessive force in comparison to the situation.

MMC stressed that obstructing journalists from performing their professional duty in line with the freedom of press guaranteed to them – is absolutely unacceptable, no matter who it comes from.

Noting that it is their constitutional duty to eliminate the obstructions for an independent environment for journalists to carry out their professional duties – MMC strongly condemned the actions of the Police and called on the relevant authorities to investigate the matter and take necessary action.