Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, has revealed that approximately 1,000 children in the Maldives are either involved in criminal activity or at high risk of entering the criminal justice system.

He identified Hope Island, a proposed rehabilitation initiative, as a viable solution aimed at offering these vulnerable children a second chance.

Speaking at the Ahaa Forum on Monday night, Minister Ihusaan cited data from the Maldives Police Service and the Department of Juvenile Justice, which indicated that around 400 children already have criminal records. A broader assessment by state agencies suggests that nearly 1,000 minors are either engaged in or highly susceptible to criminal behaviour.

The Minister warned that without timely intervention, many of these children could end up incarcerated. He emphasised that the Government’s priority is to alter the life trajectory of these young people through meaningful rehabilitation and reintegration into society.

The Hope Island project envisions the establishment of a dedicated rehabilitation island, where at-risk youth will receive psychological care, educational opportunities, and social support. Although still in the planning phase, the Government has already set up interim rehabilitation centres within the criminal justice system to provide immediate assistance.

Minister Ihusaan also stressed the urgent need to develop a specialised workforce, including trained caregivers and rehabilitation professionals, capable of delivering effective support to these children.

He further revealed that investigations are ongoing into individuals who exploit minors for illegal activities. He confirmed that those found responsible will be prosecuted and held accountable. In addition, he announced that exposing children to criminal environments has now been officially classified as a serious criminal offence.