Japan donates MVR 38.5 million in pier surveillance equipment to Maldives

Japan has donated USD 2.5 million (MVR 38.5 million) in pier surveillance equipment to the Maldives to strengthen maritime security in outer islands.

The donation was made under the “Project for Enhancement of Ability in Maritime Safety and Security in Maldives” in partnership with United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

The equipment was handed over by the Japanese Ambassador Takeuchi Midori to Maldives Commissioner of Police Ali Shujau in a ceremony held on Sunday.

According to the Japanese embassy, the equipment handed over includes CCTV cameras, computer systems, smart TVs, and other supporting equipment to fully setup the harbor surveillance system in outer islands.

The donation was made in accordance with the exchange of notes signed between Maldives and Japan on March 8, 2023.

It aims to provide comprehensive assistance to the Maldives in effectively preventing, detecting, investigating, and prosecuting cases of drug trafficking, as well as crimes in the fisheries sector, and crimes affecting the marine spaces surrounding the Maldivian archipelago.

According to Japan, the equipment donated under the project will be used for the surveillance and monitoring of harbor and piers in inhabited islands outside of the greater Male’ region to ensure maritime security and safety in remote locations.

The islands include Fuvahmulah City, AA. Rasdhoo, HA. Uligan, V. Felidhoo, N. Fodhdhoo, GA. Villingili, and L. Fonadhoo.

Japan said it hopes that the equipment will strengthen the capacity and capability of the Maldives Police Service and enhance its services in effectively preventing counter terrorism and violent extremism by strengthening communities’ resilience.