President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said gang-related crimes in the Maldives are declining as a result of the government’s intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking, strengthen the justice system and expand rehabilitation programmes.
Speaking during the third episode of the “Nation Chat” programme broadcast by PSM News, the President said drug abuse has remained one of the country’s biggest challenges for more than three decades, despite repeated attempts by successive governments to address the issue.
He expressed confidence that the comprehensive measures introduced by the current administration would produce lasting and measurable results.
President Muizzu said the government is pursuing a multi-pronged strategy that includes tightening laws, strengthening enforcement against drug trafficking and expanding rehabilitation services to help people recover from addiction and successfully reintegrate into society.
As part of these efforts, treatment and rehabilitation centres are being established across different regions of the country to improve access to recovery services.
The President stressed that the administration’s priority is to rehabilitate young people and help them become productive members of society, rather than relying solely on punitive measures. He added that the government’s strategy requires close cooperation between the public, civil society organisations, state institutions and the judiciary.
“The most effective results will be seen as these ongoing efforts reach completion. We are currently undertaking numerous tasks at once. We will achieve a positive outcome in eradicating the menace of drugs,” President Muizzu said, adding that encouraging progress is already becoming visible.
He further stated that strengthened judicial processes and coordinated national efforts have contributed to a decline in gang-related crimes and drug-related offences, according to available statistics.
President Muizzu said he remains hopeful that sustained collaboration among all stakeholders will protect young people from crime, reduce drug abuse and create greater opportunities for them to become creative, responsible and valuable contributors to Maldivian society.
