President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated the most fundamental charge of the Maldives Police Service (MPS) has always been ensuring the complete protection of every Maldivian citizen and serving each person with the utmost care and consideration. The president made the statement in his address to the nation to commemorate the 87th anniversary of MPS.
President Solih noted the anniversary of MPS this year has coincided with a time where the tireless work and dedication of the police force is being illustrated clearly as they stand on the frontlines of the COVID-19 activities, shielding the communities and displaying their bravery and perseverance. He praised MPS and encouraged to continue putting the safety and security of the public above all else.
President Solih also shed some light on the history of the police service in the country, stating that even though the institute is celebrating 87 years of service, it has only been 16 years since the institution reformed into a civil service provider. Speaking in this regard, he stated the most meaningful change brought to the institute has been the immense work undertaken to create a closer relationship with the public and become worthy of their trust and confidence.
President Solih expressed confidence the service will continue to inspire trust and public approval through the operational reform to be brought to the institution over the next five years as per the strategic action plan. Highlighting work undertaken by his administration to enhance the services, the president noted the Police Services Bill that had already been submitted for approval from the parliament. Upon ratification, the bill would open doorways to further strengthen the services being rendered to the public.
President Solih stated his administration considers it mandatory to improve police services across the nation and would augment the services with the necessary equipment and training that is needed to better enforce the law, curb criminal activities and maintain peace and harmony in the country.
Speaking further, President Solih advised with the emergence of new varieties of criminal activities, every enforcer of the law should take special care to do their duty with empathy and compassion for the victims, especially during these trying times. Citing the investigative stage as the initial and most imperative step of solving any crime, he called on enforcers to continue to do their best to expedite this stage by working in conjunction with the courts and other judiciary institutions to bring criminals to justice swiftly and fairly.
The president also extended his deepest appreciation and gratitude for the services the law enforcement officers render daily to protect the populace and called upon the public to follow the instructions given by the officials and create a closer relationship of mutual respect and understanding.