President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has directed the Maldives Police Service to stop and question foreign nationals found on the streets after 12 AM, and to take appropriate legal action if any illicit activities are identified. In a social media post, the President announced that this directive comes into immediate effect tonight. He stated that concerns have been raised regarding certain foreign nationals residing in the Maldives whose late-night conduct on local streets appears to contravene established community social norms.
Consequently, the President affirmed that the Maldives Police Service has been instructed to stop and interrogate foreign individuals in public spaces and on streets between 12 AM and 6 AM. Should any activities in contravention of Maldivian laws be identified during these interrogations, the police are mandated to take appropriate legal measures. The President further specified that this directive for police and other enforcement agencies would commence from Wednesday night.
During a meeting held on Tuesday night with the residents of Galolhu, some citizens expressed concerns about foreign nationals congregating in various areas of Malé during late hours, and engaging in activities that deviate from general social standards. Some residents also highlighted that in other countries, authorities monitor and address such situations if individuals are out after specified times.
Having heard the ideas and concerns raised by the citizens, the President instructed the relevant institutions to investigate whether foreign nationals are involved in activities that disrupt community peace and contradict general social norms. He specifically directed them to question foreign nationals found outdoors after a certain time and to address these issues. The government asserts that it acknowledges and responds to the concerns and ideas expressed by citizens in various meetings. Furthermore, the government emphasizes that such feedback ensures public participation in national governance.
