Maldives declares State of Emergency for 30 days

The Maldives has declared a State of Emergency for 30 days as per Article 253 of the Constitution (threat to national security).

The president of the Maldives yesterday said he would take all steps to ensure the safety of his people, a day after an explosive device was found near his official residence.

In his speech to the nation President Yameen Abdul Gayoom said an explosion last month on his speedboat was "an act of greed to attain power," an apparent reference to his vice president, who is being held for questioning over the alleged assassination attempt, ABC News reported.