Gang activities have decreased since the enactment of the Gang Crimes Act: Muizzu
The President has announced that an "open prison" will be established this year to facilitate the reintegration of convicts into society.
President Muizzu delivers the 2026 Presidential Address at the People's Majlis | President's Office | Presidents Office
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has stated that gang activity has declined since the enactment of the Gang Crimes Act, noting that many young people involved in such activities are now making efforts to distance themselves from that lifestyle. The President further assured that the government welcomes these individuals and is committed to providing all necessary opportunities to help them reintegrate into society as responsible citizens.
President Muizzu made these remarks while delivering the 2026 Presidential Address during the first sitting of the first session of the People's Majlis for the year.
While President Muizzu stated in his Presidential Address that efforts are being made to steer individuals away from gang activities, he had previously claimed that no gangs currently exist in the Maldives following the enactment of relevant legislation.
President Muizzu stated that the total street value of narcotics seized during operations aimed at reducing the supply and accessibility of drugs within the community has reached 2.3 billion Maldivian Rufiyaa. He further noted that this marks the highest volume of drug seizures recorded during the first two years of any administration compared to the past three terms.
Furthermore, President Muizzu highlighted the decision to develop a rehabilitation-focused island under an "open prison island" concept, where the entire island is designated as a correctional facility. Under this model, inmates will be able to reside and work on the island. The project has been assigned to the Maldives Correctional Service, with infrastructure work scheduled to begin by mid-year and plans in place to begin transferring inmates to the facility by the end of the year.
President Muizzu stated that it is a state responsibility to protect youth and children from drugs, violence, gang crime, and other social ills, while transforming them into productive and useful citizens. In line with the goal of building a resilient younger generation, the President noted that 344 youths graduated from the first batch of the National Service Program on December 28, 2025, and confirmed that students from the second batch have already departed for their training.
President Muizzu further noted that young people are actively utilizing the various programs and facilities offered at the Youth Hub. These services are designed to foster entertainment and artistic development, empower civil society organizations, and cultivate a culture of reading and lifelong learning among the youth.
President Muizzu announced several initiatives aimed at youth empowerment, including technical training programs, the convening of a National Youth Conference, and the establishment of a Youth Parliament comprising representatives from various sectors across the islands. Furthermore, to enhance youth engagement and inclusion, the President stated that the government will begin consulting young people on various ministerial projects. He also noted that reintegration activities targeting youth will be launched, alongside a specialized religious awareness program designed to steer young people away from crime and eliminate extremist ideologies.
