The Maldives Independent website is under attack and we believe the attack was designed to coincide with the state of emergency being declared. We will try to update the live blog but it may not be possible as the attacks are ongoing. For updates throughout the night please follow us on Twitter @IndependentMV.
10.17pm – The Maldives has declared a state of emergency lasting 15 days. President Abdulla Yameen said “though certain rights will be restricted, general movements, services and businesses will not be affected.”
“The Government of Maldives wishes to also assure all Maldivians and the international community that the safety of all Maldivians and foreigners living in and visiting the Maldives, will be ensured,” said the president.
In the hour since the state of emergency was declared: