Maldives Police Service has launched a high-priority investigation into the violent acts perpetrated by a group of individuals targeting the participants, including members of the diplomatic community who were attending the celebrations held to mark the 8th United Nations International Day of Yoga.
The perpetrators had sought to incite fear by forcefully entering, destroying property, and attempting to assault participants of the event. The event was attended by international diplomats, state dignitaries, and members of the public.
The Serious and Organised Crime Department of the Crime Investigation Command of Maldives Police Service is investigating the incident with utmost urgency. As of now, the evidence indicates that the demonstrators were using items taken from the office of the Progressive Party of the Maldives (PPM), the police said. So far, six male Maldivians have been taken into custody regarding the case.
Additionally, an internal review of the police response to the incident has been initiated by the MPS. The service assured the public that it will take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of the whole community. Police have also appealed to the public to provide any photos or videos available in relation to the violent acts via a portal and assured the identities of the individuals providing evidence would be kept anonymous.
