Police seeks first gang classification from PGO

Maldives Police Service states they have sought the first gang classification from the Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) under the new Prevention of Gang and Other Serious Offences Act, which came into force in August.

The Police held a press conference at Iskandar Koshi on Tuesday morning.

Speaking at the press conference, Head of Gang Crimes Enforcement, Superintendent of Police Ishaq Adam, disclosed the details of some of the work undertaken by the department.

In this regard, since the Act came into effect, six locations have been raided, 11 suspects have been arrested in seven cases, charges have been sought against two individuals, and one group has been referred to the PGO for gang classification.

Ishaq added that the police are still verifying further information for classification of a group as a gang at PGO’s instructions. 

“We have submitted one case to the Prosecutor General’s Office for classification as a gang. However, they have instructed us to clarify some information, so we are working on that,” he said.

The Prevention of Gang and Other Serious Offences Act was passed by Parliament on May 15 and ratified by the President on May 25. It arms law enforcement agencies with greater powers to curb gang activity.

Under the Act, the Police has to request classification as a gang from PGO, which, after completing the necessary processes, will file a case with the High Court. The law allows the alleged “gang” to respond to the allegations before such a declaration.

Ishaq added that the Police is cracking down on gang activities in the atolls as well.

He said the Police observed organized gang crimes prior to the enactment of the law.

“There has been a significant reduction [in organized gang crime] by the end of this year compared to its start. Hence, there is full assurance that we are utilising this legislation in the best possible way,” he stressed.