Govt proposes bill to abolish drug remand centres
This amendment aligns with the government's broader policy of establishing a centralized prison system.
The government has introduced a bill to amend the Narcotics Act, aiming to streamline the management of drug addicts in police custody.
The proposed changes would abolish the use of dedicated drug remand centres, with drug treatment programmes being administered directly within detention centres and prisons.
The bill, moved by Gamu MP Yoosuf Nasheed, seeks to repeal the provision of the Narcotics Act that mandates the use of drug remand centres. Currently, individuals in police custody who require drug treatment are transferred to these centres, as are those designated by drug courts. If the amendment passes, these centres will be eliminated, and all treatment services will be shifted to police detention facilities and prisons.
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Integration of Treatment in Detention Centres: Drug treatment programs for those in police custody will now be arranged within police detention centres. These include adult custodial jails used for investigation, remand jails for those awaiting trial, and detention centres for children.
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Role of Maldives Correctional Service (MCS): For individuals in remand prisons, the Maldives Correctional Service (MCS) will oversee drug treatment programs in accordance with regulations set by the National Drug Agency (NDA).
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Screening and Detoxification: All detainees requiring treatment will undergo screening under the supervision of a drug treatment centre. Detoxification and other necessary treatments will be provided as part of this process.
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Long-Term Assessments: For detainees held over extended periods, drug treatment assessments will be conducted to identify appropriate rehabilitation measures. The identified treatments will then be delivered within the prison system.
This amendment aligns with the government's broader policy of establishing a centralised prison system. Under this system, offenders are classified, and rehabilitation programs are implemented within the same facility. The abolition of drug remand centres is viewed as part of this strategy to consolidate resources and integrate rehabilitation efforts into the prison infrastructure.
Supporters argue that the move could enhance efficiency by reducing the logistical challenges associated with transferring individuals between multiple facilities. Centralising treatment within prisons could also streamline the rehabilitation process under unified oversight.
However, concerns have been raised about the adequacy of facilities and staff in prisons to handle the specialised needs of drug treatment. Critics warn that without proper investment in resources and training, the quality of care could suffer, potentially undermining the goal of rehabilitating drug offenders.
