he Foreign Ministry of the Maldives has issued a travel advisory for Maldivians residing in the United Kingdom, urging them to exercise caution in light of ongoing anti-Muslim protests. These protests erupted after the tragic stabbing of three young girls during a dance class in Southport, which has deeply shocked the nation and led to violent unrest.
In a press release, the Ministry stated that the High Commission of the Maldives in the UK is closely monitoring the situation. The advisory specifically highlighted the need for vigilance for those living in or traveling to Southport and its surrounding areas. The Ministry emphasized the importance of staying updated with the latest information and adhering to instructions from local authorities.
The advisory also urged Maldivians to avoid insecure areas and to contact the High Commission if they require consular assistance. The contact details for the High Commission are as follows:
- Phone: (44) 02072242135
- Email: [email protected]
The incident that sparked the protests involved the fatal stabbing of three young girls—Bebe King, six, Elsie Dot Stancombe, seven, and Alice Dasilva Aguiar, nine—at a Taylor Swift-themed dance class event in Southport. A 17-year-old has been charged with their murder, as well as ten counts of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article. The teenager is due to appear at Liverpool City Magistrates’ Court on Thursday.
The attack also resulted in injuries to eight other children and two adults, some of whom are still in critical condition. The violent protests that followed have seen thousands of demonstrators gathering near the Prime Minister’s office in London, chanting slogans such as “Save our kids,” “We want our country back,” and “Stop the boats.” Protesters have thrown flares and smoke canisters towards Downing Street, leading to the arrest of 111 people for offences including violent disorder and assaults on police officers. Five officers were injured during these clashes.
In Southport, more than 50 police officers were injured on Tuesday when protesters set police vans on fire and dismantled garden walls to use the bricks as projectiles.
The Maldivian Foreign Ministry’s advisory underscores the importance of caution and the need for Maldivians in the UK to stay informed and safe during this turbulent period.
