Members of Parliament have proposed amendments to the Prevention of Gang Crimes and Other Dangerous Crimes Bill, questioning the use of the term "gang" in the legislation and advocating for a broader focus on the root causes of crime.

The bill, moved by South Machangolhi MP Musthafa Hussain on behalf of the Government, has been referred to the Judiciary Committee for review. It aims to establish a legal framework to combat organised crime, protect society from dangerous criminal activities, and grant special powers to law enforcement agencies while also including provisions to prevent youth involvement in crime and support their reintegration into society.

One of the key concerns raised during the debate was the use of the word "gang" in the bill’s title, despite it not appearing elsewhere in the text. Maafannu Central MP Abdulla Rifau argued that gang networks in the Maldives do not operate in the same manner as in other countries and, therefore, the title of the bill should be revised.

West Maafannu MP Mohamed Musthafa Ibrahim echoed this sentiment, expressing doubt over whether organised gang activity exists in the Maldives at a level that necessitates such terminology in the legislation.

In addition to concerns over terminology, Central Hithadhoo MP Ahmed Azaan Marzooq called for a more comprehensive approach to crime prevention, emphasising that the underlying causes of youth crime must be studied and addressed rather than simply punishing offenders. He warned that enforcing harsh penalties without tackling the socio-economic factors driving young people towards crime could result in a large segment of the youth population being criminalised. Azan further stressed that Parliament must monitor enforcement agencies to ensure the law is properly implemented if passed.

Building on this argument, MP Musthafa also proposed including measures to penalise those who encourage or finance criminal activities, ensuring accountability extends beyond direct perpetrators.

According to the Government, the bill defines and penalises organised crime, dangerous criminal acts, and unjust enrichment while aiming to prevent serious and violent crimes in the country. It also includes special measures to protect children and youth from involvement in crime and supports their reintegration into society.

As the Judiciary Committee reviews the bill, further discussions and possible amendments are expected before it moves forward in Parliament.