Fishermen's protests force temporary closure of Addu Fisheries Complex
The Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO) has announced the temporary closure of its fisheries complex in Addu due to ongoing protests by local fishermen.
The fishermen have been demonstrating at the Addu Fisheries Complex (AFC) since Friday, demanding the settlement of outstanding payments for their catch.
A spokesperson from MIFCO stated that the fishermen threatened to take full control of the AFC and clear it of staff by 4:00 pm on Sunday.
They have already shut down the electricity and removed food meant for AFC workers.
While police are present at the scene, MIFCO has decided not to interfere with the protest.
The disruption has forced the company to temporarily halt operations at the AFC.
The timeline for reopening the factory remains uncertain.
During the protests, fishermen broke into the locked staff canteen through a window and consumed the food inside. They also cut electricity to the accommodation block, leaving staff without power and forcing them to sleep on the ground. This has deprived employees of basic facilities such as clean water and sanitation.
spokesperson from MIFCO stated
MIFCO reported that the AFC employs 100 people, including migrant workers housed at the factory’s accommodation block.
The protesting fishermen are demanding the shutdown of the accommodation block, admin building, and carpentry, and are insisting on prompt payment of the outstanding dues.
In a statement released on Sunday afternoon, MIFCO confirmed that the accommodation block, admin building, carpentry, and mosque have been without power since 2:40 pm on Saturday.
MIFCO has urged the fishermen to maintain a peaceful protest, warning that any harm to the company’s property or staff would be detrimental to the entire fisheries industry.
The company has also stated that if protesters enter restricted areas or disrupt MIFCO operations and police efforts, their boats will be suspended for three months.
The company appealed to the fishermen not to deny staff their basic necessities and to respect their inherent dignity.
At the end of 2023, fishermen were owed 234 million MVR, which was paid off.
This year, an additional 766 million MVR has already been settled.
According to MIFCO, there are currently outstanding payments totaling MVR 52.6 million for one month and 14 days.
The company is working with the government to resolve these payments as soon as possible.
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