Maldives President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih confirm extending the state closure period until 14 May 2020.

The decision to extend the period by another 14 days comes as government's decision to flatten the curve of COVID-19 community spread. Greater Male' Region is currently experiencing a community spread since the virus was discovered in Male' City.

Earlier, Health Protection Agency (HPA) announced continuing with strict regulations; restricting vehicular and pedestrian movement only to exempted parties; with acquired valid permits from Maldives Police Service.

However, Maldives Police Service on Wednesday confirmed the permits for delivery issued to traders, businesses, outlets, vehicles and staffs will become void after 48 hours in a bid to tighten lockdown measures.

President Solih's decision to extend state closure will mark the second extension on the closure period since its initial declaration.

Meanwhile the total number of confirmed cases of the virus have risen to 396 in the island nation.