The Maldives Police Service has entered a new chapter following the retirement of Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen, with Deputy Commissioner Farhad Fikury temporarily entrusted with leading the institution until a permanent appointment is made.
Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan formally handed over interim leadership to Fikury today, a move in line with statutory requirements under the Police Act. Fikury is currently the only serving officer holding the rank of Deputy Commissioner within the service.
Under the law, the Ministry must publicly announce the vacancy and ensure that a new Commissioner is appointed within 45 days. Only officers ranked Assistant Commissioner and above are eligible to apply. The Police Board is mandated to evaluate and interview applicants before forwarding its recommendations to the Minister, who will then advise the President on the final appointment.
Naveen stepped down after 32 years of service, submitting his retirement request to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu. In a message to senior officers, he described his decision as one made after careful reflection. In a subsequent Facebook post, he said he departs with the same respect for the badge, confidence in the institution, and love for the nation that marked the beginning of his career nearly three decades ago.
Appointed Commissioner in June 2024 following the retirement of Ali Shujau, Naveen’s tenure unfolded during a period of intense public scrutiny. The police service faced protests and heightened criticism over an incident involving a young woman’s fall from a building in Malé.
His retirement also comes amid political and institutional debate. The Parliament’s Public Accounts Committee recently recommended the suspension of seven senior police officers, including Naveen, over alleged corruption linked to the police welfare company POLCO and related matters. A final parliamentary decision on that recommendation remains pending.
When Shujau retired, candidates for the top post included Naveen, Farhad Fikury, and Assistant Commissioner Ahmed Shameem. President Muizzu ultimately appointed Naveen at the time. With the leadership seat once again vacant, attention now turns to the statutory selection process that will shape the future direction of the Maldives Police Service.
