MNDF to hold weeklong exhibition to showcase Nov 3 weapons

The Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) is scheduled to hold a weeklong exhibition to showcase the weapons used on November 3, 1988 – when Maldives experienced its deadliest terror attack.

In an interview to PSM’s ‘Raajje Miadhu’ show on Friday, Command Sergeant Major Abdulla Saeed said the exhibition is being held to educate the young generation regarding the great danger the attack posed on the Maldives and the tales of the national heroes who sacrificed their lives to protect the country’s independence.

Abdulla Saeed added that this year’s exhibition will be different.

According to him, the exhibition will showcase some of the weapons used, as well as artwork, photos and videos.

The ‘Nasruge Dhuvahuge Sifainge Mauraz’, which roughly translates to the MNDF Victory Day Exhibition’ will be held at the Republic Square in Male’ from Sunday to Saturday.

The foiled attack of November 3rd, 1988, with armed mercenaries from Tamil secessionist organization People's Liberation Organization of Tamil Eelam (PLOTE), was carried out in an attempt to overthrow former President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom’s administration.

The attack killed 19 Maldivian citizens - eight soldiers and 11 civilians - and left scores more injured.

It is commemorated in the Maldives as Victory Day.