Changes to police structure, anti-gangs unit to be dissolved

The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has decided to make changes to its organizational structure and dissolve the unit established by the current administration to combat gangs.

A reliable source confirmed to RaajjeMV that changes are being made to the Maldives Police Service (MPS) structure, and it has been decided to transfer senior officials working within the police. Some officials will be transferred to specific units, and some will be relieved of certain responsibilities.

Referring to the unit established by the current administration to combat gangs, the source noted that it has been decided to dissolve the unit and continue operations as they were before. The source added that this decision was reached due to significant pressure from the government.

Among the newly established entities in President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu's government's new police action plan is a Gang Crime Enforcement Unit. In addition to this, the Digital Data and Technology Command and Hulhumalé Police have been changed to separate commands. This action plan came into effect on 1 July 2024.

Further, it has been decided to relieve some senior police officials of certain duties they are currently performing and transfer units. The source said this includes Mohamed Riyaz, Faruhad Fikuree, and other officials.

When contacted by RaajjeMV about the decision to change the Maldives Police Service structure and dissolve the unit established by the current government to combat gangs, Police Spokesperson Mohamed Shifan said it was not true and that it was false information. He added that the unit established to combat gangs will not be dissolved and that its work will continue.