The police have stated that the force used to stop the MDP protest in Malé last night was within the authorized powers granted to them by regulations.

The police have faced accusations of using disproportionate force to disperse the protest. The main criticism has been directed at the use of a sonic weapon called the Long Range Acoustic Device (LRAD).

MDP's legal team has stated that the police do not have permission to use this loud sound-emitting device. They also mentioned that there are no established protocols for using such devices.

In response, the police issued a statement today saying that the force used to stop the gathering was in accordance with the powers authorized by the Police Service Act, the Weapons Possession and Use Regulation, and the Regulation on Police Powers and Discretion.

"We also state that the fundamental principles that need to be maintained in using such force have been upheld," the statement said.

The police said that arrests were made because the protesters deviated from the previously agreed-upon route and chose a different one.

The police further stated that some protesters seized police equipment, damaged some items, and engaged in activities that violated the law.