President Muizzu Reports Decline in Gang Crime Through New Strategic Initiatives

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that government initiatives are successfully curbing gang-related crime and addressing the long-standing narcotics crisis across the Maldives. Speaking during the PSM News programme ‘Nation Chat,’ the President noted that while the country has struggled with addiction for three decades, current robust measures are beginning to produce visible results. Central to the administration's strategy is a shift toward rehabilitation over punishment. President Muizzu emphasized that the government's primary policy focuses on protecting young people from addiction and guiding them toward becoming constructive citizens. To support this, the state is expanding rehabilitation systems and establishing treatment facilities across various regions to ensure individuals can be successfully reintegrated into society. To tackle the root causes of the crisis, the government is currently drafting legislative amendments aimed at halting the import and trade of illicit drugs. These legal updates are intended to strengthen enforcement procedures and create a more formidable barrier against narcotics trafficking. President Muizzu highlighted that these achievements are the result of a multi-sectoral approach, involving the cooperation of state institutions, civil society organizations, the judiciary, and the general public. He noted that a substantial amount of work is being carried out simultaneously to eradicate the scourge of narcotics from the community. According to the President, the impact of these strengthened judicial processes is already reflected in official statistics, which indicate a downward trend in gang-related offences. He expressed confidence that as current initiatives reach full completion, the positive outcomes will become even more pronounced, leading to a safer environment for all Maldivians.