News Desk
In a stern crackdown on rising drug-related crimes, Internal Security and Technology Minister Ali Ihsan revealed that drugs worth MVR 30 million have been confiscated in the past one and half month. Minister Ihsan highlighted the concerning correlation between societal crimes and drug activities, prompting the government to intensify efforts in combatting the drug problem.
To address the surge in drug smuggling, Minister Ihsan announced the formation of a special task force dedicated to preventing the illegal import of drugs. The seized contraband, amounting to MVR 30 million, includes drugs worth MVR 28 million and liquor worth MVR 2 million. The majority of the seized drugs were intercepted during attempts to smuggle them into the country, prompting plans to bolster border security.
Minister Ihsan emphasized the need to strengthen customs awareness, collaborating with the Commissioner of Customs to educate personnel on identifying and seizing drugs sent through postal services. The government has also engaged foreign intelligence agencies to curb drug smuggling by sea, with ongoing investigations targeting drug traffickers and network operators within the Maldives.
Citing a direct directive from the President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu to eradicate narcotics, Minister Ihsan underscored the collective effort across institutions to fulfill this mandate. Besides preventing drug imports, the minister emphasized the importance of reducing drug demand. Initiatives include facilitating treatment for individuals seeking help, with over 700 applications to the National Drug Agency and 300 admissions so far. Treatment for admitted individuals is set to commence within the next month.
Minister Ali Ihsan stressed the holistic approach of addressing both the supply and demand sides of the issue, affirming that a reduction in drug availability and demand is crucial for resolving the drug problem in the Maldives.
