Police have arrested three individuals in connection with a protest by fishermen opposing the state-owned Maldives Fisheries Company’s (MIFCO) purchase of tuna. Officers said they are working to identify expatriate crew members who joined the protest despite being advised not to participate.

Police boarded boats where expatriates were seen involved and took two vessels into custody. The three arrests were made for disobeying police orders and obstructing police duties. Among those detained is Kendhoo MP Mauroof Zakir, a founding member and former general secretary of the Fishermen's Union.

The protest began on Saturday morning, with fishermen from 49 boats gathering near the Kanneli jetty in Hulhumalé. The MNDF Coast Guard later intercepted the vessels as they approached Malé City, where the boats had attempted to enter the North Harbour.