MDP expresses concern over reports in the Maldivian media of foreign naval/coast guard personnel stopping and searching Maldivian fishing vessel, ADH. Mahibadhoo Asurumaa 3, while it was operating in the Maldives exclusive economic zone.

The MDP calls upon the Government to look into this incident as a matter of urgent priority. It is incumbent upon the Government to share this development with the Governments of our neighbours, India and Sri Lanka, to ascertain whether their respective personnel were involved in this incident.

The monitoring of the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone falls to the Maldives National Defence Force. The MDP calls upon the authorities to ensure that Maldives territorial waters are safe and secure for Maldivian fishers, seafarers and travellers