Maldives Homeland Security Minister Vows “Strictest Possible Action”

Maldives Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihsan, has announced that the government will enforce the “strongest possible action” against individuals involved in criminal activities, particularly those associated with recent high-profile incidents. This statement comes after police received a report about a person allegedly held against their will at a Hulhumale' Phase 2 apartment complex. Speaking to reporters, Ihsan affirmed that public safety remains a top priority under President Mohamed Muizzu’s administration.

Minister Ihsan commented on the current limitations of Maldivian law, noting that historical legislation prioritized the rights of offenders rather than equipping authorities to deter crime and protect victims. He expressed that many existing laws were drafted with insufficient emphasis on empowering law enforcement to maintain safety, a gap he believes contributes to current crime challenges.

The Minister also highlighted proposed amendments to the Gang Act and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, expected to bolster authorities' capacity to combat criminal activity. Ihsan expressed confidence that these legislative changes, if enacted, would significantly curb the crime rate and improve overall public safety.

The government, according to Ihsan, remains unwavering in its commitment to protecting citizens and has clarified that these legislative updates aim to resolve long-standing security issues.