Home Minister Ali Ihusaan stated last night that many individuals previously involved in gangs have now transitioned into business or formal employment following an ultimatum provided by the government.
Speaking at the "Ahaa Forum" hosted by the President's Office, Ihusaan explained that the government offered gang members a choice to pursue legitimate careers and entrepreneurship. He noted that a significant number of these individuals have since chosen that path and are now leading productive lives.
"We gave them a choice. We told them, 'You are young people with your whole lives ahead of you. There is still a future.' We offered them the opportunity to distance themselves from crime and contribute positively to the Maldives through business and employment. We are pleased to note that many of these youths have chosen that route," Ihusaan said.
The Minister stated that since the current administration took office, authorities have conducted 52 gang-related operations, during which 10,000 individuals were searched and 517 suspects were arrested. He added that over 700 motorcycles linked to these groups have also been impounded.
Ihusaan further highlighted that the government's efforts have led to a decrease in violent crime, which previously dominated the headlines. He emphasised that no lives have been lost to gang violence under the current administration to date.
"The youth who were previously involved in these activities are largely accepting our advice and guidance and are working hard to distance themselves from that lifestyle. So I hope this positive trend continues in the future," Ihusaan said.
Additionally, the Minister stated that various measures have been taken to prevent the exploitation of minors in criminal activities, noting that children identified in such environments have been removed and reunited with their families.
President Mohamed Muizzu previously stated in February that new legislative measures aimed at curbing gang crime were successfully steering youth away from criminal organisations. However, in December 2025, the President remarked that there are currently no groups in the Maldives that meet the criteria to be classified as active gangs.
