With the new Anti-Gang Crime Act now in effect, police have commenced operations to monitor individuals involved in criminal groups and seize their assets.
The legislation, which grants expanded powers to law enforcement in combating gangs, became active on Monday.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, police confirmed their commitment to implementing the new law. They plan to engage with the Prosecutor General's Office (PG) to secure orders from the High Court to identify organized criminal groups and monitor their active members. A key focus will also be the protection of children involved in these groups.
Police stated they will submit reports to the PG office regarding all known criminal groups operating in the Maldives. Special attention will be given to the confiscation of property linked to organized criminal groups and their recruitment of youth and children.
Furthermore, police will increase their presence in areas frequented by organized crime groups, conducting raids and searches of private premises suspected of being used for criminal activities.
Previously, police have alerted parents to the presence of children in areas where organized crime groups often gather. Home Minister Ali Ihusaan had also indicated that approximately 400 children are known to be involved in criminal activities.
The grooming of children into crime is a significant societal issue, particularly prevalent in the drug trade, where teenage boys are often coerced into committing offenses. Children are also exploited by gangs and criminals to commit serious crimes, including murder, with known criminals manipulating children into believing they belong to these groups.
The new law grants extensive powers to police and law enforcement agencies, including:
The authority to enter private premises, arrest, and search suspects without a court order.
The power to deny bail to serious offenders.
The ability to restrict a person accused of a serious crime from meeting privately with a lawyer for 48 hours following arrest.
Additionally, the act introduces severe penalties, including prison sentences exceeding 10 years and substantial fines.