Operation Cactus: What happened in November 1988, when Maldivian President asked India for help

On the intervening night of 2nd and 3rd November 1988, around 200 to 300 armed mercenaries landed in the country's capital, capturing key installations. The then President of Maldives, Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, requested help from New Delhi and Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.