In a decisive move to combat organized crime, Acting Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen announced a comprehensive internal review within the Maldives Police Service (MPS) to address allegations of police officers’ involvement in gang-related activities. This declaration was made yesterday during the ratification ceremony of the Prevention of Gang and Other Serious Offences Act at the President’s Office.
“We are committed to ensuring that no uniformed officer is complicit in such crimes,” Naveen stated, emphasizing the importance of rooting out corruption within the police force. He confirmed that investigations are underway, led by the Police Professional Standards Command and the National Integrity Commission, to examine the alleged connections between certain officers and criminal gangs.
The newly ratified law, which grants expanded powers to law enforcement agencies, is set to come into effect in three months. During this interim period, the MPS is undertaking extensive preparations to align its operations with the forthcoming legal framework. This includes training personnel, updating protocols, and enhancing inter-agency collaboration to effectively implement the new measures.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who ratified the legislation, reiterated the government’s zero-tolerance policy towards organized crime. He highlighted that the persistent issue of gang-related offenses in the Maldives has been exacerbated by a lack of political will in the past. “No one is above the law,” the President asserted, underscoring the administration’s commitment to impartial and decisive action against all forms of criminal activity.
The public has largely welcomed these initiatives, viewing them as essential steps toward restoring safety and trust in law enforcement. As the MPS continues its internal review and prepares for the implementation of the new law, the nation anticipates a more robust and accountable approach to tackling organized crime.
The Maldives stands at a pivotal juncture in its fight against organized crime. With the introduction of stringent legislation and a renewed focus on internal integrity, the country aims to usher in an era of transparency, accountability, and public safety.
