Police to boost street patrol
The new policy will require a police officer to be visible on the streets every five minutes.
The Maldives Police Service has announced changes to its patrol policy, which would require a police officer to be visible on the streets every five minutes.
The decision comes in response to an increasing number of traffic accidents in the city.
Commissioner of Police Ali Shujau, speaking to the media on Sunday, confirmed that police officers currently undergoing training will join front-line duty after completing their courses. These officers will be stationed on the streets for extended periods each day.
Shujau outlined the new measures as follows:
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Police will be deployed in 21 areas during peak traffic hours
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A modern communication centre has been established in Male and Hulhumale to monitor and coordinate police operations, with a senior officer on duty 24 hours a day
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The centre will track the exact locations of on-duty officers
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Technology will enable the instant collection and analysis of information needed for police work
In addressing drug and gang-related crimes, Shujau highlighted several steps:
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A special unit has been formed to combat gang activity
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Police will be stationed in areas known for gang activity in both Male and Hulhumale
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A senior officer from the anti-gang and anti-drug units will work at the communication centre to strengthen coordination in these areas
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General security in Male and Hulhumale will be closely monitored, with decisions made as needed
According to police data, from January to August last year, 67 individuals were arrested for gang-related offences, of which 30 were later released.
During the same period, 712 individuals were arrested for drug offences. Police seized 158.85 kg of drugs and 5,252 bottles of alcohol, valued at over MVR 2.8 million.
Transport ministry has also decided to form a technical committee to improve road safety in the city. Additionally, the police plan to patrol accident-prone areas around the clock.
