Thursday, June 07, 2007

Maldives Update: June 7, 2007.

Tension was high in Malé after police arrested at least eleven drivers on Tuesday in an attempt to break a three day long strike against rising fuel prices.
Action will be taken against taxi drivers who participated in strike: Minister, Haveeru Online, May 6, 2007.

The arrests were immediately followed by
a mass jailbreak at Maafushi prison, one of the largest prisons in the island. One man has been confirmed dead during the incident and two are hospitalised "in a serious condition.
Ajay Makan, Custodial Death After Maafushi Jail Break, Minivan News, June 6, 2007.

According to Maldivian Detainee Network doctors in IGMH say the injuries are consistent with assault. The police have been accused of violence in the prison.
Ajay Makan, Police Accused Of Violence As Maafushi Inmate Buried, Minivan News, June 6, 2007.

European Union has demanded that Maldives, must urgently open the way to sweeping democratic reforms. The EU believes that there needs to be a proper investigation into recent events; including Mr. Salah’s death some weeks ago and that the use of force cannot solve political problems.
EU demands democratic reforms in Maldives, EU Business, June 4, 2007.

Also See:
"The Maldivian Coast Guard is a highly trained professional force. Several thousands of our hard-earned money is allocated to our defence budget. It is their duty to protect our waters and that's what the people of Maldives pay them for."
Coincidence or Stage-managed: possibly with a view to frame the opposition? Divehi Observer.

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