Maldives Police Service has reaffirmed its commitment to the right of peaceful assembly, after facing allegations over its handling of a protest outside the People’s Majlis on 16 September 2025.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Police said officers had been deployed from the early hours to maintain order, ensure public safety, and secure the Parliament’s outer perimeter as protestors gathered in the area. The statement noted that the gathering was unlawful under Section 24 of the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act, as the location near the Majlis is not a designated protest area and no prior permission had been granted.

According to the Police, some individuals attempted to breach security barricades and obstruct operations. Officers issued repeated warnings, urging compliance with lawful instructions, and throughout the day exercised what was described as maximum restraint. No tear gas, pepper spray, batons, or other crowd-control devices were used, with officers relying on communication and guidance to disperse the crowd. Limited physical restraint was applied only where necessary to prevent escalation and ensure safety.

The Police said protesters were guided out of the restricted perimeter in accordance with established protocols and that the operation was concluded without the use of forceful measures or major injuries to either protesters or officers. Roads and access points around the Majlis were subsequently cleared, allowing parliamentary work to continue without disruption.

Rejecting allegations of brutality, the Police maintained that officers acted strictly in line with operational protocols, applying only the minimum force necessary to safeguard both demonstrators and law enforcement personnel. The statement also addressed an image circulated in the media, claiming it had been taken out of context and that the individual shown was a participant in an unlawful gathering rather than a journalist.

Reaffirming its commitment to constitutional rights, the Police said the approach adopted reflected its priority to employ lawful, proportionate, and professional measures.

The Professional Standards Command has launched a review of the operation, with an assurance that any breaches of protocol or misconduct identified would be met with appropriate disciplinary or legal action.