President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has pledged to devote more resources and assistance to the Maldives Police Service (MPS). He made the statement during a meeting with senior officers of the Upper North Police Station, during the first couple's visit to Haa Dhaalu Atoll.
At the meeting, President Solih said the decentralisation of policing under the new Maldives Police Service Act will ease difficulties in policing and that the government will provide the resources needed for these changes. President Solih further noted that the government plans to initiate the construction of 61 police stations in different islands within the year and said the plan also includes the establishment of an extension building for the Kulhudhuffushi Regional Police Headquarters.
Addressing the importance of law enforcement for sustaining communities, President Solih highlighted that the most prominent role in law enforcement rests upon the police. President Solih also said the various meaningful changes implemented over the past two years to improve policing in the country had successfully garnered public trust.
Also at the meeting, the senior police officers noted the difficulties faced in policing and the resources and infrastructure needed to improve police capabilities and services. Furthermore, the officers discussed ways to ensure arrangements for better communication between relevant authorities and agencies. The officers also shared information on the changes being implemented to policing under the Police Service Act and the efforts underway to develop human resources and improve overall policing.
Following the discussions, President Solih toured the Upper North Police Station premises.