President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, following a recommendation from the Cabinet, has resolved to implement "Vessel Tracking Devices" on marine vessels and systematically monitor their activities. This initiative aims to effectively combat the sale and trafficking of narcotic drugs throughout the nation.
The decision was made following discussions on a paper submitted by the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology during today’s Cabinet meeting.
The determination to install and oversee marine vessels via tracking devices strategically supports the anti-drug operations conducted by the Maldives Police Service, addressing the widespread issue of drug sale and trafficking across the nation.
In addition, in line with the Cabinet's recommendation, the President has opted to revise the Sea Vessel Safety Regulation (2015/R-229) to enforce the mandatory installation of tracking devices on all marine vessels.
At today’s Cabinet meeting, the President also decided to establish a comprehensive system for tracking the movements of vessels equipped with the installed devices. This monitoring will be conducted through the collaboration of the Maldives Police Service's Maritime Operations Centre and the Maldives National Defence Force's Maritime Rescue Coordination.
