Australia has donated surveillance drones to the Maldives Customs Service as part of its broader efforts to support maritime and border security in the Indian Ocean. The drones, handed over during a ceremony attended by Australian High Commissioner David Jessop and Commissioner General of Customs Fathimath Dhiyana, are expected to significantly enhance monitoring capabilities at key customs-controlled zones, including ports and border points.
Commissioner Dhiyana expressed gratitude for the Australian Government’s continued support, stating that the drones will play a vital role in improving the Customs Service’s operational capacity in surveillance and enforcement. The Australian High Commission noted that the donation aligns with regional goals to ensure a safe and stable Indian Ocean through deeper bilateral cooperation. The initiative is part of an ongoing partnership between the Maldives Customs Service and the Australian Border Force aimed at strengthening border enforcement and port management in the Maldives.