Chilling warning for Aussie travellers
A warning has been issued to Australian travellers following civil unrest in the Maldives.
The island paradise is a popular destination that attracted about 35,000 Australians last year and is located about 750km southwest of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean.
SmartTraveller updated its advice telling holidaymakers visiting the Maldives to avoid areas impacted by demonstrations and to exercise a high degree of caution.
'Public demonstrations could occur and may become violent,' the warning read.
SmartTraveller advised there have been several terrorist attacks in the Maldives since February 2020, including three foreigners who were stabbed in Hulhumalé and an Australian who was injured.
A police speedboat was set alight in Laamu Gan in March 2020 and an explosive device was detonated in Malé in May 2021, injuring a politician and bystanders.
While resort islands were considered generally peaceful and secure, travellers were warned protests and demonstrations could occur in the greater Malé area and inhabited islands or non-resort islands. Holidaymakers visiting the Maldives have been told to avoid areas impacted by demonstrations and to exercise a high degree of caution. Credit: Supplied
'Terrorism can occur anywhere at any time. Terrorists may target areas visited by tourists. Follow the advice of local authorities,' travellers were warned.
'Avoid protests and demonstrations, even if they appear calm and peaceful and follow the advice of local authorities. Monitor local media to avoid affected areas.
'Drug-related crime and gang-related violence occurs in urban areas, including greater Malé and inhabited islands.'
Travellers were warned to avoid affected areas and to follow instructions from security personnel and authorities.
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