Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan has said efforts to curb drug trafficking will achieve full results next year.
Speaking at a ceremony held to mark the 93rd Anniversary of Maldives Police Service, Minister Ihusaan said police action against drug dealers will be intensified next year, moving into a “higher gear”. He noted that gang violence in communities has largely been brought under control.
The minister said next year will focus on removing individuals from criminal environments under the President’s “Intellect and Self-Development Policy”, aiming to help those affected reintegrate into society.
The government highlighted rising challenges from technology-related crime, including cybercrime, online fraud, digital exploitation and organised crime networks, and said the police must be better equipped with modern technology and government support to handle these evolving crimes.
According to the minister, the government is also prioritising expanding police services nationwide. Noting that only 17 islands had police stations when the government took office, he said around 100 islands previously had no police stations. However, over the past year alone, five new police stations were opened, and all islands are expected to have adequate police service centres by the end of the term, he said.
Separately, speaking at the same ceremony, the Commissioner of Police Ahmed Mohamed announced that allowances for honourably retired police officers will be improved. He said the rules for calculating honorary retirement allowances will be revised, adding that the government is prioritising strengthening the police force and creating new opportunities for officers. A new decision to provide medical treatment for retired police officers based on length of service was highlighted as a new benefit.
The Commissioner said that, under President Mohamed Muizzu’s leadership, the police are seeing positive reforms in operations and service improvements. He said the police will continue focusing on public service delivery and maintaining public trust and confidence. He also emphasised that the police service is increasing resources and training to improve service quality.