President Mohamed Nasheed has today established Department of Drug Prevention and Rehabilitation. The new department will function under the Ministry of Health and Family.
Among the principal tasks of the department are to increase awareness on the dangers of illicit drugs; protect the people from the ill effects of drugs; and, treat and rehabilitate substance abusers. The department is also responsible for facilitating greater coordination among national drug law enforcement agencies and civil society in combating drug trafficking.
Following the establishment of the Department of Drug Prevention and Rehabilitation, the Drug Rehabilitation Services has been abolished with immediate effect, and their work has been re-designated to the new authority.
The President has also abolished the Department of Medical Services and its work has now been re-designated to the Ministry of Health and Family.
