President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that families cannot be expected to live under the constant threat posed by drug users who engage in intimidation, theft, robbery, and violence.

In his Presidential Address, he emphasised that the drug epidemic represents one of the nation's most pressing social challenge and acknowledge his responsibility to protect the younger generation from such destructive behaviours.

The President explained that a nation where families must endure threats from drug users is essentially on the “brink of death,” adding that such a situation is unsustainable for any state and requires immediate corrective measures.

These corrective measures are already showing results through multiple initiatives. A programme launched in October 2023 by the National Drug Agency (NDA) and Maldives Police Service has brought more than 100 drug users into treatment, while 'Operation Fanaaru', launched in December 2023, has provided rehabilitation to 85 per cent of 700 waitlisted individuals. The initiatives focus on vulnerable individuals in public spaces and include comprehensive medical care, mental health support, and counselling services.

Additional measures include implementing a 24-hour arrest and deportation system for foreign nationals involved in drug-related offences, installing vessel tracking devices to monitor drug trafficking, establishing community-based rehabilitation centres in L. Gan, N. Velidoo, and K. Kaashidhoo, and initiating amendments to the Narcotics Control Act alongside new anti-gang legislation.

Additional measures include plans to install vessel tracking devices on sea vessels to monitor drug trafficking, establish community-based rehabilitation centres in L. Gan, N. Velidoo, and K. Kaashidhoo, and initiate amendments to the Narcotics Control Act alongside new anti-gang legislation.

The President identified the ban on electronic cigarettes and vapes as one of his administration's key initiatives to protect youth from drug exposure. He expressed confidence that this measure would contribute positively to social outcomes and help guide the nation in the right direction.