Maldives Police Service (MPS) has reported that MDP Vice President Shifaz was taken into their custody Monday night so as to give him advice.
Police Media Official reported that he was taken to the Police headquarters where he was given advice and released immediately. The Official reported that he was given advice as they had conducted their
assembly late into the night with the use of loudspeakers, which is banned after midnight.
In spite of Shifaz’s arrest, the assembly was carried out. MDP had condemned Shifaz’s arrest, stating that the Police had entered the headquarters without any court orders.
Freedom of Assembly Act states that the usage of loudspeakers after midnight is banned. With the continuous protests led by the opposition, Home Minister Umar Naseer had decreed that loudspeakers
can be used only up to 11.00 pm.
Police had stated that assemblies and rallies cab be held and must not disrupt the daily lives of the public.
Shifaz was taken under custody for counsel: Police
