Police have announced restrictions on traffic and pedestrian movement in several areas of Malé City on Friday night.

The measures come as the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) prepares to hold a protest in the capital. Police said the decision was taken as part of an ongoing operation to ensure public safety.

Authorities stated that they have received information about criminal groups planning to disrupt the MDP rally. As a precaution, certain areas of the city will remain closed to the public during the night.

Police have urged the public to cooperate with the restrictions and apologised for any inconvenience caused.