New anti-gang law ends indefinite detention pending trial, PGO says

The Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) has said that the new Prevention of Gang Crimes and Other Dangerous Crimes Act addresses concerns over indefinite detention of suspects pending trial for serious crimes.

The Act, which was introduced in Parliament late last year, came into force on Monday after being ratified by President Mohamed Muizzu on 25 May. It replaces the Prohibition of Intimidation and Possession of Dangerous Weapons and Sharp Objects Act.

Deputy Prosecutor General Aishath Mohamed, speaking at an awareness forum held jointly by the PGO and police on X, said the law now ensures that suspects cannot be kept in custody indefinitely without evidence.

According to her, the Act introduces a system where suspects may be released if evidence is insufficient, but investigations can continue and charges may be filed later if new evidence emerges.

“There is now a mechanism to prevent indefinite detention while still allowing continued investigation. If there is no evidence, the person must be released. However, the case may continue, and prosecution can proceed if further evidence is found,” she said.

The Act also extends certain deadlines compared to ordinary criminal offences. For intentional homicide cases, investigations may now take up to 180 days from the first court appearance, compared to the previous 45 to 75 days. Prosecutors will also have 30 days to file charges after receiving a case, instead of the previous 15.

The PGO said relevant rules under the law have already been prepared and will be made public soon. It added that major police powers under the Act will come into force once those rules are implemented.