Authorities have detained 178 individuals from different regions across the country, transferring them to remand centres for treatment and rehabilitation.

According to Lubna Zahir, Chairperson of the National Drug Agency (NDA), the majority of individuals taken into custody have already begun receiving treatment. She noted that only a small number remain without treatment, mainly due to ongoing criminal proceedings. She explained that once these legal cases are resolved, the individuals concerned will also be enrolled in treatment programmes without delay.

The initiative targets individuals found intoxicated in public spaces, particularly on city streets. In addition, when families report cases of alcohol consumption within their households, especially those involving minors, law enforcement intervenes. In such instances, the individuals are taken into custody and transferred to remand facilities for care and intervention.

Lubuna highlighted that the overarching goal of the programme is reintegration. She stated that the priority in treating patients at remand centres is to provide them with long-term care, with the aim of helping them reintegrate into community life.

The Government launched this initiative in October, initially focusing on removing intoxicated individuals from urban public areas. Authorities have reported a significant decline in the number of people found under the influence on the streets since the programme began.

Looking ahead, the Government is working to expand the reach of its substance abuse response by establishing remand centres on various islands. The aim is to provide accessible treatment services closer to residential areas. Facilities have already been opened in Thinadhoo, Fuvahmulah, and Addu City.