Minister of Home Affairs Imran Abdulla has stated police presence is an important step in reducing crime in the atolls. He made the remarks while speaking at the ceremony to inaugurate the new police post in Hulhudhuffaaru, Raa Atoll.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Imran said the government is continuing its efforts to expand police services to the islands. He noted that communities are suffering from the prevalence of drugs and the various crimes that result from them. He said a strong police presence prevents such problems from manifesting in the island communities.
The minister also said the leadership of the Maldives Police Service (MPS) is implementing great changes for police officers to work more closely with the public. As such, he said the neighbourhood policing service allows teams of officers to help citizens with their everyday problems.
Speaking at the ceremony, Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed said the establishment of the new police post in Hulhudhuffaaru is an extra step towards implementing the new Maldives Police Service Act. He also said the police strategic plan formulated in 2019 focuses on establishing police presence and expanding police services to the atolls.