Two AFP journalists arrested in Maldives: one from Punjab, other is a British national of Indian origin

As the situation remains tense in the Maldives, two journalists working with international news agency Agence France-Presse (AFP) were arrested today. According to news agency ANI, while one journalist is an Indian, the other is a British national of Indian origin.

Both the journalists, Money Sharma from Punjab’s Amritsar and Atish Ravji Patel from London, were arrested under the Maldivian State of Emergency decree for ‘national security purposes’, ANI reported.

While the exact reason for their arrest has not been ascertained yet, the two journalists have been handed over to the Maldives Immigration department. However, since a state of emergency has been declared, the Maldivian police does not require warrants for arrests.

Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen has declared a 15-day state of emergency. On Monday, the security forces had arrested an ex-president and two justices as the political crisis deepened in the Indian Ocean island chain.

Deputy leader of Maldives Adhaalath Party, Ali Zahir has demanded immediate release of the two journalists. “We don’t have freedom of press anymore. Last night one of the leading TV stations was closed. We call for their immediate release and restoration of democracy and rule of law,” Zahir was quoted saying by ANI.