President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has asserted that no one is above the law, attributing the failure to curb gang-related crimes and other serious offences to a lack of political will. 
 
He made this statement in response to a journalist’s question during the ratification ceremony of the Prevention of Gang and Other Serious Offences Act (Act No. 7/2025), held at the President’s Office today.
 
Speaking at the ceremony, the President underscored the importance of public engagement in addressing such sensitive issues. He expressed confidence that the newly ratified legislation, with the support of the public, would yield promising results. He emphasised that the objective of the Act is not to criminalise the public, but to protect them from criminal environments.
 
Responding to media queries, the President stated that the longstanding issue of gang crime in the Maldives had remained unresolved due to insufficient political will and the prioritisation of personal interests. He assured that, under his Administration, appropriate measures would be taken to address such issues, including expanding the role of enforcement agencies and implementing practical solutions without granting exemption to any party. The President reiterated the importance of public cooperation in establishing lasting and comprehensive solutions to these challenges.
 
The ceremony was attended by Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan, Attorney General Uz Ahmed Usham, Prosecutor General (Retired Justice) Uz Abbas Shareef, Deputy Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen, Deputy Commissioner of Police Farhad Fikree, Chief Judge of the Criminal Court Adam Mohamed, and Chief Judicial Administrator Amjad Mustafa.
 
This legislation was passed during the 32nd session of the first term of the People’s Majlis for the year 2025, held on May 15. It includes provisions for the judicial designation of gangs and gang-related crimes, measures to prevent the financing of such activities, and mechanisms for the confiscation of assets belonging to those involved. The Act also introduces safeguards to prevent the recruitment of minors into gangs, mandates special enforcement measures, and establishes a robust framework for the monitoring and supervision of offenders.
 
Following the President’s ratification, the Act has been published in the Government Gazette and is now in force.