The Maldives Police Service has identified around 300 children exposed to criminal environments in the Greater Malé Region and is working with parents to remove them from high-risk areas linked to gang activity.

The update was shared at a press conference by Superintendent of Police Mohamed Shareef, head of the Crimes Against Children Wing and acting in charge of the Family and Child Protection Department.

Superintendent Shareef said information was collected from children spending time in locations known for high gang activity, as part of efforts to prevent children involvement in gang-related offences. He stated that police are working to safeguard the identified children and to intervene before they become further exposed to criminal behaviour. According to police, the initiative includes collaboration with families to support children in leaving these environments.

Police noted that cases involving minors in such settings have been increasing across the Greater Malé Region, with the highest number of juvenile delinquency cases recorded in Hulhumalé Phase II. Shareef said police have responded to cases identified in the area and are monitoring locations considered hotspots for juvenile involvement in unlawful activity.

He added that police are currently working with 71 children nationwide who are undergoing behavioural interventions initiated through the Juvenile Court. Plans have been made to expand rehabilitation efforts, including measures to admit repeat young offenders to the Hoarafushi Rehabilitation Centre for treatment before supporting their reintegration into the community.

He also stated that while a national treatment system for young drug users is not yet in place, work is ongoing to establish a structured programme next year to support children who require specialised care.