President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has said drug-related influence that existed within the Maldives Police Service when his administration took office has now been eliminated.
Speaking in the third episode of his podcast series, The Pulse, released on Friday, President Muizzu said the government has made significant progress in tackling drug trafficking and substance abuse across the country.
According to the President, the administration encountered serious drug-related influence within the police force after assuming office, including incidents where narcotics seized during police operations allegedly found their way back into the community.
“By the grace of Allah, those influences have been removed, and we no longer hear of such opportunities existing within the police service,” He said
The President also stated that both drug-related deaths and fatalities linked to gang violence have declined during the current administration.
He expressed confidence that the Maldives can overcome its drug problem through a united national effort, noting that the government is implementing a comprehensive strategy to address both drug trafficking and addiction.
President Muizzu said the policy prioritises rehabilitating young people affected by substance abuse and helping them become productive, self-reliant members of society.
He added that lasting solutions require addressing the root causes of addiction, including housing challenges, limited employment opportunities and inadequate income-generating prospects for young people.
The President further noted that improvements in education and healthcare are also closely tied to solving the country’s drug problem, describing the government’s approach as a long-term strategy focused on addressing these interconnected issues.
The administration has previously introduced several tougher measures to combat drug-related crime, including legislative amendments that provide for the death penalty for those convicted of smuggling specified quantities of certain narcotic substances.
