Maldives declares state of emergency

MALE, Maldives, Aug. 14 (UPI) -- Political unrest has prompted the ruler of the Maldives, a tiny island nation in the Indian Ocean, to declare a state of emergency, the BBC reported.

A protest by about 5,000 people for more democracy and the release of political prisoners turned violent before the emergency declaration was declared, the BBC reported Saturday.

Four police officers were reportedly stabbed and about 50 arrests made. A curfew in the capital was also instituted.

President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom has ruled the Maldives for 25 years and prohibits political parties. The emergency declaration allows Gayoom to suspend the constitution and take any steps necessary to maintain peace.