Holidaymakers in the Maldives were taking cover last night as the islands were rocked by a series of anti-government protests.

Rising prices forced thousands onto the streets of the capital Malé to demand the resignation of president Mohamed Nasheed.

Police used teargas and batons to disperse the crowds, with opposition figures stating some 30 protestors had been injured during the demonstrations.

Nasheed took office in 2008 following the first multi-party elections in the country.

His election bought to an end 30 years of autocratic rule.

More protests were expected to take place on Sunday night.

Officials at the British Foreign Office warned holidaymakers to be on their guard.

“Maldives has been going through a period of political transition,” explained a statement.

“Social unrest is possible and some past demonstrations on the capital, Malé, and other islands have resulted in violence.

“You should avoid demonstrations and beware of spontaneous gatherings.”

The Maldives is made up of 1, 200 islands scattered in the Indian Ocean.