Maldives Police Service (MPS) has begun issuing new permits during the lockdown imposed in the Greater Male' Region, after cancelling all previous permits over misuse.
Speaking at a press conference held at the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC), Superintendent of Police Hussain Sameer said MPS is now issuing new permits via the police portal for delivery services and shops that want to operate businesses during the lockdown. He also added vehicles that need to be used during deliveries and operating shops should also register and get a permit from the portal.
Speaking previously to the media to update on the efforts of MPS during the COVID-19 pandemic, Assistant Commissioner of Police Abdulla Fairoosh said the policies on issuing delivery permits for businesses would be revised in order to further strengthen them. He said the decision had to be made due to the misuse of permits granted.
Furthermore, MPS stated permits issued to individuals to go out to buy necessities will remain active as the decision will not affect permits issued to individuals.
The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has declared a State of Public Health Emergency in the Maldives until May 31 and has also extended a lockdown in the Greater Male' Region until May 14.