Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has decreased its alert status.
A statement issued by the defense force on Thursday said the operation that was commenced by the authority on December 24th was concluded at 6 hrs on Thursday morning.
Giving further information on the matter, Major Ibrahim Azim of MNDF said the alert status was decreased from 'Yellow-2' to 'normal', and said the operation conducted by the defense force had been very successful.
MNDF raised the alert status of the defense force to 'Yellow-2' from 19 hrs of December 24th. Usually, the level is used in situations where the defense forces believe the country's peace is at risk, or when such intel has been received. However, MNDF had later revealed that the status level was raised as a precaution and not due to a specific threat.
Speaking at a news conference held by the Ministry of Tourism, Minister Ali Waheed had said the government decided to take such a precaution following extensive discussion between the cabinet and the heads of defense forces, and based on technical advice. Minister Waheed said the decision was made to ensure the safety of tourists visiting the Maldives.
The minister pointed out that the ideologies of people across the world are changing, and such changes have to be considered and adopted in making the policies of the country. In this regard, ensuring that tourists are assured of their safety while in the Maldives will bring advancement to the tourism sector, said Ali Waheed.
"This will take the tourism industry of Maldives to new heights. Protecting the main pillar of our economy, the tourism industry will bring us advancement. We believe ensuring the safety and protection [of tourists] will bring protection and development to the tourism sector," the minister had said.
