Injured journalist transferred to Sri Lankan hospital

One of the journalists from Channel 13 injured as police dispersed a demonstration by the opposition PPM-PNC coalition outside the Parliament earlier Monday has been transported to neighboring Sri Lanka for further treatment.

In a statement via its official Twitter account, PPM said the journalist was transported to Sri Lanka in accordance with the wishes of his family Monday night.

The journalist, Hassan Shaheed, had reportedly sustained a head injury in the incident. He had been photographed on the ground unconscious.

According to PPM, two of Channel 13’s journalists were injured in the incident.

Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) issued a statement expressing concern over the incident.

“The media-credentialed videographer and photojournalist were sprayed with pepper spray and struck by police shields. One of the journalists is currently being treated in hospital,” said MJA.

“Therefore, we strongly urge the police to protect journalists when dispersing such demonstrations.”

MJA said they also received a complaint Monday regarding harassment of a journalist from VTV who was covering the demonstration.

“This association condemns such actions. MJA will always advocate for a safe environment for journalists,” said the association.

Monday’s demonstration was staged to coincide with President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih’s arrival to the Parliament to deliver his annual address.

Demonstrators demanded President Solih’s resignation, and for the freedom of opposition leader, former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom.

According to the opposition coalition, 11 demonstrators were arrested by police, and some sustained injuries in confrontations with the police.