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President of Maldives has declared a 30-day state of emergency ahead of a planned protest against the Government from the main opposition of the country, the Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP). With the declaration by President Abdulla Yameen, security forces get power to arrest suspects.

Earlier in March, MDP leader Mohamed Nasheed was jailed following a widely criticized conviction under anti-terror laws.

Muaz Ali, his spokesman, tweeted that, "President Yameen has declared (a) state of emergency to ensure the safety and security of every citizen."

According to Attorney-General Mohamed Anil, recently, cache of firearms and explosives were discovered besides plans to use dangerous weapons. Also, authorities said on Monday that they defused a bomb planted close to the presidential palace.

Mr Anil said, "The military and police found weapons and an explosive from two locations. Because these would be a threat to the public and the nation, the National Security Council has advised to take immediate steps to protect the people of Maldives."

Recently, Vice-President Ahmed Adeeb was arrested for alleged hand of blowing up the boat of the president to assassinate. However, Mr Yameen escaped injury while his wife was hurt. As per the investigation from the FBI in the US on the blast, there was no evidence that bomb caused the blast.

-Sumana