Over 300 Children Identified As At Risk of Criminal Influence, Says Police

Police have identified over 300 children who are spending time in criminal environments or closely associating with individuals who have criminal records, and have begun early intervention efforts with their parents to prevent further involvement in crime.

At a press conference held at Iskandhar Barracks yesterday, Superintendent Mohamed Shareef, head of the Police Crime Against Children Department, said officers have compiled information on around 300 minors who are frequently seen in the company of known offenders. He said police have already started contacting parents to inform them of the situation and explain how these patterns of behaviour were identified.

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Shareef stated that coordinated work with parents and relevant agencies is expected to produce positive outcomes. He also expressed concern over the increasing number of children under the age of 18 becoming involved in criminal activity.

He noted that a significant number of such cases are being observed in the Greater Malé Area, including Malé, Vilimalé and Hulhumalé, with particular concern over Hulhumalé Phase 2. He said additional investigative focus is required on cases emerging from that area.

Superintendent Ishaq Adam, head of the Police Gang Crime Enforcement Department, said police have observed that many children spend long periods, both during the day and late at night, with individuals who have criminal records. He said this often occurs in locations where gang activity is concentrated.

Police said the early intervention initiative is aimed at reducing the risk of children being drawn into criminal groups and at strengthening parental involvement in preventing youth crime.