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Brits warned after attacks on foreigners in Maldives
The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) has warned Brits to be vigilant in the Maldives after an Australian and two Chinese nationals were stabbed.
Extremists claimed responsibility for the attacks, which took place on the island of Hulhumale, near the capital Male.
Maldives police said three people have been arrested.
"The Maldives Police Service is working closely with all relevant stakeholders in this matter and assures the public of our continued efforts to ensure the safety and security of those in the Maldives," it said.
The 44-year old Australian, who works in the Maldives, suffered ‘non serious injuries’ and the other two victims are stable.
One of the Chinese citizens is a tourist and the other also works in the Maldives.
Local reports say a suspected group of Islamic State sympathisers claimed responsibility for the attack.
The FCO updated its advice to say: "On 6 February 2020, the Maldives police confirmed the arrest of three people in relation to a knife attack on foreign residents in Hulhumale.
"The attack was claimed by an extremist group. You should remain vigilant."
The FCO added: "Away from the exclusive resort islands, gang related violence including knife crime has increased recently, including in the capital Male and in Hulhumale.
"There is no evidence that British nationals are being targeted. You should be vigilant when travelling to areas outside of resort islands.
"The most common problems faced by visiting British nationals are lost and stolen passports, and swimming and diving related accidents."
Lisa
Lisa joined Travel Weekly nearly 25 years ago as technology reporter and then sailed around the world for a couple of years as cruise correspondent, before becoming deputy editor. Now freelance, Lisa writes for various print and web publications, edits Corporate Traveller’s client magazine, Gateway, and works on the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife series of photography books, which raise awareness of nature’s most at-risk species and helps to fund their protection.
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