Police Identify Nearly 300 Children Exposed to Criminal Environments, Launch Intervention Program

Police have identified approximately 300 children who are frequently exposed to criminal environments or associate closely with individuals with criminal records, officials announced on Tuesday. Authorities have begun working with parents to intervene early and prevent these children from being drawn deeper into criminal activities. Superintendent Mohamed Shareef, head of the Police Crime Against Children Department, revealed that officers have compiled a list of minors regularly seen with known offenders. Shareef emphasized that parents have been informed about their children's involvement in crime and the patterns identified. Coordinated efforts with relevant agencies are expected to yield positive results. Shareef expressed concern over the rising number of under-18s involved in criminal activity, particularly in the Greater Male' Area, including Hulhumale' Phase 2. Police aim to reduce the risk of children being recruited into criminal groups and strengthen parental involvement in prevention efforts.