to coincide with the school holidays and the new year, the Marine Police has launched a sea vessels inspection campaign to ensure the safety and security of boats loaded with goods from the ports.

The operation was launched on 26 December 2023.

As such, the Marine Enforcement and the Marine Investigation Department of the Maldives Police Service (MPS) is collaborating to conduct the operation.

During the operation, boats preparing to leave from the capital Male' City and boats arriving to the capital from the islands will be inspected to ensure that the vessels meet the safety requirements.

Under the operation, boat captains will also be notified of any repairs that must be completed before departure. The operation is going to offer information on maritime safety and security to the captains and crew of the vessels.

Additionally, information will be provided regarding the significance of understanding the Marine Transport Act, its regulations, and the complete cooperation of ship captains and crew in carrying them out. As such, the operation will also emphasize on how crucial it is for the vessels to be safe in compliance with the rules and laws designed to guarantee the safe transportation of the commodities that people give to their destinations.

Additionally, the special operation will also be ensuring weather the number of passengers is adequate.

Pre-loading and departure inspections will also be performed on the vessels as part of the operation.