President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has assured that the government would effectively address the issues of gang crimes, drugs and illegal migrants during the current term with the cooperation of the public.
He made the statement while addressing at a special ceremony held to mark the two-year anniversary of his government.
In his speech, the President provided a detailed overview of the government’s achievements in the field of social security.
Since taking office on 17 November 2023, the President has prioritised tackling three longstanding challenges facing the Maldives: gang crimes, the drug epidemic, and illegal migration.
Sharing the two-year success of the government, the President said one of his top priorities is to build a society where the people can live happily. He said the longstanding challenges faced by the country need to be tackled effectively to achieve this.
Highlighting illegal migration as a key social concern, the President said the process of collecting biometric data from foreigners in the Maldives has now been completed. If any illegal migrant is identified through an operation or information provided by a citizen, he will be deported immediately, he said.
Referring to the drug issue, the President said maximum penalties for drug trafficking are being imposed to prevent narcotics from entering the Maldives. This will bring a comprehensive solution to the drug issue, he’d said.
The President said he is working hard to reintegrate drug addicts back into society through effective rehabilitation. He noted that additional rehabilitation centres are under construction in Gan, Laamu Atoll, Velidhoo, Noonu Atoll, and Kaashidhoo, Kaafu Atoll.
Highlighting the gang issue, the President said the number of criminal groups has decreased with the introduction of the Prevention of Gangs and Other Serious Offences Act, a significant success for the government.
The President said he wants to work with the people to solve these issues. If the people cooperate with the government’s efforts, he will successfully solve all pressing issues during this term, he said.
The President expressed his commitment to making every decision that benefits the country, no matter how difficult the decision may be.