Former Police Commissioner Criticizes Proposed Lowering of Criminal Responsibility Age

Former Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed has voiced his stance, asserting that lowering the minimum age of criminal responsibility does not offer a viable solution to the ongoing issues.

This statement comes in the wake of disturbing footage depicting the bullying and violence inflicted upon a child in Alif Alif Atoll Rasdhoo by peers. Subsequently, the government has revealed its decision to reduce the age of criminal responsibility from 15 to 12 years.

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Prosecutor General (PG) Hussain Shameem emphasised that globally, children involved in criminal activities are typically provided rehabilitative measures. He cautioned against a punitive approach, arguing that incarcerating every offending child could perpetuate a cycle of criminality.

Echoing these sentiments, Hameed shared his perspective on the matter, referencing a Mihaaru article covering the PG’s remarks. He proposed that instead of lowering the age threshold, concerted efforts should focus on establishing a comprehensive, inter-agency strategy to address juvenile delinquency, incorporating prompt and effective interventions. Hameed highlighted existing deficiencies in the state’s current approach to tackling this issue.

Conversely, the PG advocated for rehabilitation and guidance for offending children, stressing the importance of nurturing young minds away from criminal behaviour.

The Juvenile Justice Act, enacted in 2019, stipulates that individuals are accountable for criminal acts beyond the age of 15. Prior to this legislation, children were held responsible for crimes subject to ‘Hadd’ penalties in Islamic Shariah from the age of 10, and for all other offences from the age of 13.

The government expressed its intention to amend existing laws to designate 12 years as the minimum age of criminal responsibility.

Addressing concerns at a press conference held by the Special Task Force Against Bullying, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan referenced Department of Juvenile Justice data, highlighting approximately 200 children vulnerable to criminal activities, with the majority falling within the 12 to 14 age bracket.