Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has announced the government's initiative to establish one centralised main prison, consolidating the various prisons across the country.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Ihusaan revealed an ongoing survey aimed at strengthening the prison management system in the Maldives. He highlighted President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's commitment to combine separate prisons on different islands, streamlining services under one central facility.
Additionally, Minister Ihusaan said that the current prison management system is both costly and hindering the provision of adequate services, with expenses ranging from USD1,400 to 2,000 per prisoner every month. As such, he said that the government sees the establishment of a centralised main prison as the optimal solution to address the issues and enhance rehabilitation services. He emphasised that such a facility would still maintain the segregation of treatments for inmates involved in various crimes.
Furthermore, Minister Ihusaan noted the existing prisons in Hulhumale', Dhoonidhoo, Himmafushi, and Maafushi in Kaafu Atoll but highlighted severe space constraints and insufficient staff for rehabilitation. The consolidation of prisons aims to release prisoners into society after appropriate treatment, ensuring a smoother transition.
Moreover, Minister Ihusaan outlined plans for the new prison to adhere to international standards, providing high-quality treatment and rehabilitation services to inmates. As such, he said that a survey on the construction cost, methods, and potential consequences will be undertaken. He said that the prison will be developed in the Greater Male' Region, however, the exact location will be determined following the survey.