The Minister for Homeland Security, Labour and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, has said that the most important mission the police must accomplish with the greatest determination is protecting the Maldives from the drug epidemic.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the 42nd Basic Police Training Course, the Minister highlighted the country's crime situation and the responsibilities that lie ahead for the police.
He said that for many years the greatest threat to the Maldives' internal security has been the problem of illicit drugs. He also noted that organised crime is largely financed through the drug trade.
The Minister stressed that tackling the drug problem is essential to safeguarding the national interest. Although it is a difficult task, he said significant progress has been made over the past two and a half years. He also urged the police to remain fully prepared to respond to the broader range of crimes affecting the country.
"Crime must be met with a strong response. For many years, the biggest obstacle has been the drug epidemic. It destroys individuals and tears families apart. This is the most important responsibility entrusted to the police. The police's mission that must be completed most successfully is protecting the country from the drug epidemic," Minister Ihusaan said.
During his address, the Minister also outlined how police officers should approach their duties.
He said the police's greatest weapon is not the baton or any other piece of equipment, but the public's trust. Serving with integrity and humility, without arrogance, is essential to fulfilling the police's responsibilities and maintaining public confidence, he said.
The Minister had previously stated that the full results of efforts to dismantle drug trafficking networks would become evident next year. He also said police operations targeting those involved in the drug trade would be intensified further in the coming year.