Minister Ihusaan Urges Police to Intensify Fight Against Drug-Related Crime

Minister for Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan has said the police’s most important mission is to protect the Maldives from the drug epidemic, describing illicit drugs as the country’s greatest internal security threat.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the 42nd Basic Police Training Course, the minister highlighted the country’s crime situation and the responsibilities facing newly trained police officers.

He said the illicit drug trade has remained the biggest challenge to the Maldives’ internal security for many years and noted that organised crime is largely financed through drug trafficking.

Ihusaan said tackling the drug problem is essential to protecting the national interest. While acknowledging that the task is challenging, he said significant progress has been made over the past two and a half years.

The minister also urged police officers to remain prepared to respond to the wider range of crimes affecting the country while continuing efforts to combat drug-related offences.

He said public trust is the police’s greatest asset, adding that officers should carry out their duties with integrity and humility rather than relying solely on equipment or the use of force. He stressed that maintaining public confidence is essential to effective policing.

The minister has previously said the full impact of efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks is expected to become evident next year. He also stated that police operations targeting those involved in the drug trade will be intensified further over the coming year.