Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has said that body scanners installed at Maafushi Prison will be brought into operation in April, to curb illegal activities, including scam calls originating from within the prison.

Speaking to state media, the Minister said installation works are currently under way and prison officers are being trained to operate the equipment. He said the scanners are expected to significantly strengthen security controls by preventing prohibited items from being smuggled into the prison facility.

The Minister said the introduction of the scanners is aimed at addressing ongoing concerns over scam operations linked to inmates, adding that improved screening measures at entry points would help disrupt such activities. He noted that once the system becomes operational, unauthorised items will be prevented from entering the prison, strengthening overall security and monitoring.

Addressing broader challenges within the prison system, Minister Ihusaan said overcrowding continues to affect rehabilitation efforts and security management. He said limited resources and infrastructure constraints have posed difficulties in maintaining effective supervision and delivering rehabilitation programmes for inmates.

The Minister said the Government is working to improve prison conditions in line with international standards, including steps taken to provide electricity to all prison cells. He said these measures form part of reforms aimed at ensuring humane conditions while strengthening security.

He also said the administration is pursuing reforms to reposition prisons as rehabilitation-focused facilities, including the introduction of policies that recognise participation in rehabilitation programmes. In addition, the Government plans to develop an open prison island under the Maldives Correctional Service, with construction expected to begin later this year and the facility targeted to become operational before the end of the year.