The drug problem has been declared a national security issue by the government of President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.
The former government, under President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, treated the drug problem as a national health issue.
The National Drug Agency (NDA) was under the Ministry of Health during the former government but the NDA is now under the Homeland Security Ministry.
Responding to questions during a press briefing today, the Undersecretary for Public Policy at the President's Office Mohamed Firzul, revealed that the new government has a different approach to the drug problem.
However, he said the government will still focus on providing treatment for drug addicts.
"Earlier, this issue was seen as a health-first issue. Now the President and the government's view on this issue is that it is related to national security," he said.
He indicated that state agencies must work together to solve the drug issue while the Homeland Security Ministry has the biggest responsibility.
"One thing is that the routes of drugs into Maldives should be closed. At the same time, the focus on treatment will be increased. In any case, the efforts to bring people to treatment and provide rehabilitation will increase," Firzul said.
The NDA Board consists of 10 members appointed by the President representing 10 agencies. The Chairman of the Board shall be appointed by the President from among the members of the Board.
