Male:  The Maldivian government announced a 24-hour lockdown in the city after a local with no recent travel history tested positive for COVID-19.

The lockdown was imposed by the Health Protection Agency (HPA), which is handling the pandemic in the archipelago.

An announcement issued by HPA on Wednesday said no one will be allowed to enter or exit Male, Villimale, Hulhumale, Thilafushi and Gulhifalhu for 24 hours effective immediately, until further notice.

Public transport including ferries and buses will also stop operation during this period. No vehicles or persons will be allowed on the streets of Male' city during the lockdown.

HPA said as per the new measures enacted in Male city, the departure of all unauthorized vessels docked in any part of the city is also prohibited.

HPA said the restrictive measures do not apply to police and MNDF officers, those working in health care facilities and their vehicles, ambulances, persons and medias holding a pass issued by the National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC).

Maldives Police Services has urged all residents to return home before 3.30 pm. While 21 people have now tested positive for COVID-19 in the Maldives, this is the sixth Maldivian to test positive for the disease.