The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has urged Maldivian authorities "to conduct an immediate investigation into the manhandling of journalists covering a political gathering.
A Special Operations (SO) police officer who manhandled journalists covering the opposition leaders gathering in Republic Square in Male' last Thursday evening was suspended.
"Journalists must be able to report without fear of obstruction, harassment or assault and these repeated incidents make clear the need for greater safety measures for media workers in the Maldives," the IFJ said.
"The IFJ condemns the assault committed by local police and urges authorities to conduct a transparent investigation into the incident."
The IFJ's local affiliate, Maldives Journalists Association (MJA), also condemned the assault.
"We urgently call upon the National Integrity Commission and the police to conduct a swift and thorough investigation and take necessary measures against the officers who obstructed journalists and media workers during the incident," the MJA said.
Police Commissioner Hameed told Adhadhu that the police officer had been suspended and the SO police department had been ordered to launch an investigation into the incident.
“In connection with the video of the journalist being pushed, the police officer has been removed from responsibilities and the Specialist Operations Unit has now been instructed to investigate the matter,” Hameed said.
The statement from IFJ and MJA noted that journalists in the Maldives continue to face harassment and assault from police while covering opposition rallies.
