In a decisive move to combat organized crime, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, declared that the newly ratified Prevention of Gang and Other Serious Offences Act will dismantle the protective barriers that have long shielded gang activities from legal repercussions.
Speaking to the press following President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s ratification of the legislation, Minister Ihusaan emphasized the transformative nature of the law. He noted that while a 2010 law aimed to curb gang violence, its effectiveness was hampered by the lack of judicial mechanisms to identify gangs and their affiliates. The new Act addresses these shortcomings by providing clear definitions of offenses and enhancing law enforcement capabilities.
“These are not easy changes,” Minister Ihusaan remarked. “Enhancement of law enforcement powers and judicial identification of crimes and offenders will make it very difficult for many people involved in these activities to do what they are doing now.”
The legislation introduces stringent penalties for gang-related activities, including up to 25 years of imprisonment and substantial fines. It also implements measures to protect minors from gang recruitment and establishes systems to monitor high-risk individuals.
Minister Ihusaan expressed confidence that the law would serve as a deterrent, stating, “I believe this is a law that even those who are involved in such criminal activity would think twice about getting away from a life of crime. I am confident that it will happen.”
He assured the public that enforcement agencies are committed to applying the law rigorously, ensuring that offenders cannot operate beyond its reach. The Minister concluded by highlighting the expected positive changes in public safety as the law comes into force.
