Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has announced plans to consolidate all prisons into a central facility to reduce per capita costs. The announcement was made during the inauguration of "Dhivehi Sagaafee Goathi," a cultural initiative at Maafushi Prison in Kaafu Atoll.
During the ceremony, Minister Ihusaan highlighted the high operational costs of the current prison system, which amount to USD 1,750 per inmate per month. To address this, the government plans to establish a central prison on reclaimed land near the capital, Male' City. This new facility aims to reduce per capita expenditure to approximately USD 1,102, based on current projections. The central prison is expected to be operational within three years.
Minister Ihusaan also emphasised the importance of strengthening the inmate management system. He reiterated President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's vision of combining the currently dispersed prisons across different islands into a single facility, capable of providing all necessary services in one location.
Furthermore, Minister Ihusaan assured that the treatment of inmates will continue to be differentiated based on the nature of their crimes. He added the new prison will be designed to meet international standards, offering both standard and rehabilitative care to inmates.