Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihsan has announced that all ongoing police building projects will be completed within the current government’s term, and that the police will be equipped to deliver all services essential for national security.
The Minister made the statement at a ceremony held to inaugurate the new police station in Innamaadhoo, Raa Atoll, and to mark the expansion of police services across the Maldives.
The Minister noted that before the current administration assumed office, police services were available in 121 islands, with services being provided from dedicated police buildings in only 17 islands. He noted that the services were provided in the remaining islands in inadequate facilities and without the proper resources. He also noted that most police officers stationed in the islands are stationed away from their families without proper accommodation.
The Minister said the service provided by the police is assessed, and improving these conditions is costly. However, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu prioritised providing the best possible police service to the people, and this is being achieved through the establishment of fully equipped police headquarters on every inhabited island, he said.
According to the Minister, police services have been established in 66 islands in less than two years, and this is a testament to the efforts of the police leadership and officers. He stated that the government is currently working on establishing police stations in 95 islands.
The Minister noted that the construction of accommodation blocks to house a large number of officers is underway in four areas, while preparations are underway to commence the practical work on establishing police stations in an additional 39 islands.
The Minister reiterated that the government will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that children grow up in a safe environment, free from harmful influences. The police station developed and opened in Innamaadhoo demonstrates that the remaining projects will also be completed, he said.
Speaking at the ceremony, Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen said the responsibility of the police is not only to enforce the law, but also to strengthen social cohesion among communities. He described the opening of a police station in Innamaadhoo as a symbol of the government’s efforts to establish police presence on every inhabited island. It also demonstrates the commitment of the police to provide services in collaboration with local communities, he said.
The Commissioner of Police also highlighted the vision and mission of the Maldives Police Service, emphasising that the police are dedicated to protecting lives, property, and homes of the people, while serving with justice, compassion and trust. The Maldives Police Service continues to modernise, training officers to serve a civilised society, he added.
The Commissioner further stressed that ensuring the peace and security of the society requires joint effort between the police and the public. While the police service expands, the relationship between the police and the community should also be strengthened, he said.
Commissioner Naveen urged all police officers to uphold professionalism, honesty and integrity in their service to the nation. He emphasised that the police service is also based on responsibility, and urged the police to serve the people in accordance with the laws and regulations.
During the ceremony, a special publication highlighting the establishment of police services on every inhabited island of the Maldives was launched. The Minister of Homeland Security also presented certificates of appreciation to 13 employees of different police departments for their contributions to the effort. A plaque was also presented to the Minister in recognition of his efforts to expand police services nationwide.