In a significant crackdown on criminal activity, the Maldives Police Service (MPS) has conducted a wide-ranging, two-day operation targeting gang-related crimes across the capital Male’ city.
MPS said its specialised Gang Crime Suppression Department (GCSD) swept through 501 areas across the city on 13 to 14 November. The extensive search operation was carried out as part of intensified efforts to enhance safety and security for the public.
During the concentrated effort, police reported 129 interactions with individuals across the monitored locations. The operation also involved checks on 10 vehicles, four of which were subsequently towed for various violations or suspicious activity.
This large-scale initiative underscores the government's renewed commitment to public safety, especially following the implementation of the new Gang Crimes Act in August this year.
Designed to combat serious and dangerous organised crimes, including gang activities, the landmark legislation grants special powers to enforcement agencies to investigate, penalise, and take decisive action against perpetrators.
Beyond immediate suppression, the Act also outlines comprehensive measures aimed at rehabilitating individuals by removing them from criminal environments, facilitating their return to society, and establishing special rules for monitoring their behaviour post-reintegration.