Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has confirmed that no journalists were arrested during the protest against the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission Bill.

His remarks came in response to former president Mohamed Nasheed’s call for the release of journalists, following claims that several had been detained during the demonstration.

In a post on X, Minister Ihusaan clarified that no members of the press were taken into custody. He explained that journalists had gathered within a designated ‘green zone’, areas where protests and rallies are prohibited, and had demonstrated near the President’s Office and the President’s official residence, Muliaage.

According to the Minister, the protest within the restricted zone was unlawful, and police officers had directed journalists to leave the area after repeated warnings went unheeded.

The Maldives Police Service (MPS) also issued a statement reaffirming that no arrests had been made. The statement said officers had instructed journalists to vacate the green zone but stressed the institution’s commitment to upholding fundamental freedoms.

MPS said the institution believes that that gatherings, free expression, and the media play an important role in a democratic society and that police we will continue to facilitate rallies and protests in accordance with the law and regulations.