Security

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu today decided and announced the closure of 96 massage parlors that were operating in a way that facilitated undesirable and illegal activities. This decision is a strong step taken by the government to uphold the moral standards of society and to find solutions to the social problems caused by such illegally operating places. Following the President's decision, the relevant authorities have now announced that they have started the practical work of closing those places. The government describes this decision, announced in conjunction with the New Year, as an important step taken to ensure the safety and security of the country.

Sajid, who was the head of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), has been suspended from his position today in connection with allegations of sexual harassment. He was suspended on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, reportedly to investigate serious issues raised against him. He is prohibited from attending work while the investigation into this matter is ongoing. The relevant government authorities have not yet disclosed any further details regarding this matter.

On Wednesday, December 31, 2025, relevant authorities conducted a special operation to remove vehicles illegally parked in the Hulhumalé Industrial Area. This activity was an operation conducted with the aim of organizing the roads of the area and reducing old and unused vehicles that hinder industrial work. A large number of vehicles were removed from the area as part of this work, and the relevant authorities noted that this was an important step taken to ensure public safety and security. The authorities urge all parties to cooperate in making the roads of the industrial area accessible to all.

Today (31 December 2025), in an operation conducted in Malé, five Indian individuals have been taken into police custody in connection with cases of betel nut. These individuals were arrested from different areas of Malé on suspicion of using and possessing betel nut, and all those involved in this case are Indian citizens. Police are currently further investigating the case of these five individuals.

Today, Wednesday, 31 December 2025, customs and relevant authorities have seized a large quantity of cigarettes that were being smuggled into the Maldives. These items were seized during a special operation conducted to prevent the illegal import of cigarettes. Authorities are currently conducting further investigations into the matter. Work has also begun on taking legal action against those who illegally import goods.

The ceremony to inaugurate the "Police Command Work Information Sharing and 2026 Calendar" on behalf of the Maldives Police Service was held on Wednesday, December 31, 2025. This event was a ceremony held to strengthen the system of sharing information related to police work among the commands, and to release the calendar prepared with important events planned for the upcoming year 2026. It was noted at this event that with this new calendar, modern changes will be brought to the procedures for exchanging information needed for police operational work. This system will strengthen the relationship between the different departments of the police and facilitate the improvement of the quality of services provided to the public.

Police have started investigating a case where the manager of SJ Trade Wholesale is suspected of fraud and deception by misrepresenting prices. Following the submission of the report of this case to the police on December 31, 2025, the institution is investigating the company's business transactions and verifying the allegations against the manager. Police have not yet disclosed any arrests in connection with the incident, but information has been received that this is a deception carried out by changing the prices of goods sold to customers.

Recently, under the "New Law on Preventing Gang Crimes" that came into effect, the Police Department submitted a request to the relevant authorities on 31 December 2025, to designate 'Dark Town' as a criminal gang. Under this new law, the police are working to officially designate it as a gang group to strengthen efforts to stop the series of crimes committed by the group and actions that disrupt the peace of society. The police note that if 'Dark Town' is designated as a gang, strict measures will be taken under this new law against people affiliated with the group and those who assist them.

Regarding the increasing issue of juvenile delinquency in Hulhumalé, police launched special operations in the area on December 31, 2025. The purpose of this operation is to prevent the recruitment of children into criminal groups and to ensure the safety and security of the general public. In addition, police are patrolling various areas to maintain street safety in Hulhumalé. As part of this effort, it has been decided to take legal action against those who commit crimes.

Today (31 December 2025), in a special operation conducted by the police, a stolen car has been recovered and taken into police custody. Police have informed that important forensic evidence related to the case was found inside the vehicle when it was found. While further investigation is underway into the matters that need to be investigated regarding this incident, police are swiftly working to find the culprits with the help of the evidence obtained so far. Scientific analysis has now begun to identify the suspects in the vehicle theft case.

Today, Wednesday, December 31, 2025, it has been revealed that an official investigation has been launched into the allegations of child abuse against Sunny Umar. Although the concerned parties have confirmed that the investigation into this matter is ongoing, no further details regarding this ongoing investigation have been officially disclosed today. This is the latest information that has surfaced regarding this matter in today's date.