The Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) has filed charges against eight individuals in connection with unrest during a protest held by the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) on the night of 3 October last year.

The PGO stated that the protest took place across several streets in Malé City in violation of the Freedom of Peaceful Assembly Act. The gathering involved loud demonstrations that disrupted public movement and business operations and obstructed police officers while carrying out their duties.

The eight individuals have been charged with intentionally obstructing law enforcement officers in the performance of their duties. The cases were forwarded to the Criminal Court on 26 February 2026.

The PGO further noted that seven additional individuals were investigated in relation to the incident. However, charges were not filed against them due to insufficient evidence to meet the prosecutorial threshold and the absence of sufficient public interest grounds to proceed. Their cases have been referred back to the Maldives Police Service.

The Office stated that decisions to prosecute protest-related cases are based on evidence demonstrating that harm was caused to a person or property, or that circumstances were created in which harm or damage was likely. Where such evidence is established and prosecution is considered to serve the public interest, charges are pursued.