Security stepped up in Maldives luxury resorts
Security has been strengthened in luxury island resorts in the Maldives amid fears recent political turmoil could spread to the tourism industry.
The latest unease comes after vice president Ahmed Adeeb was arrested on suspicion of involvement in an explosion on the President’s speedboat, which injured the First Lady.
"We can reassure and say that even learning from this incident itself, we have tightened and strengthened security in the resorts," said foreign minister Dunya Maumoon.
"We should not over-exaggerate this particular incident. The country has largely been very peaceful and tourists have been safe. There has not been any targeting of tourism."
Maumoon insisted it was an extra precaution and tourists are safe in the Maldives, although some countries have updated their travel advice.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office added to its advice earlier this week warning of a heightened risk of demonstrations taking place in the capital of Male following the recent arrest and detention of vice president Adeeb.
"Sporadic political protests are also taking place following the arrest of former President Nasheed earlier this year," it said.
"Previous demonstrations have led to violence and arrests. You should take appropriate security precautions and avoid large gatherings, protests and rallies."
Tourism is vital for the Indian Ocean nation and makes up more than a quarter of the Maldives gross domestic product.
Supporters of opposition parties have previously warned they would attempt to disrupt the tourism industry but unrest so far has had no significant impact outside the capital Male.
Bev
Editor in chief Bev Fearis has been a travel journalist for 25 years. She started her career at Travel Weekly, where she became deputy news editor, before joining Business Traveller as deputy editor and launching the magazine’s website. She has also written travel features, news and expert comment for the Guardian, Observer, Times, Telegraph, Boundless and other consumer titles and was named one of the top 50 UK travel journalists by the Press Gazette.
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