Will reveal names of gangs and gang members: Ihusan

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan has said that, in future, names of various gangs and gang members will be released to the public.

In an interview with Mihaaru News last week, Ihusan said that the existing laws surrounding deterring gang crimes make it difficult to take action against them. He said that the definition of gangs in the law presents challenges in itself, adding that they are currently working on amending this.

Ihusan revealed that they are currently in the final stages of amending this law.

He asserted that once the amendments are brought to his law, which initially came into effect 14 years ago, the public would be able to observe the results. As such, names of gangs and members of these gangs would be released to the public, he said.

"The laws as they are now prevent us from taking swift action against gangs. But, we will draft and finalize amendments to the law which will address all existing challenges. Meaning, we will bring a legal change that will facilitate finding a permanent solution to the issues of gang crimes, and gang-run businesses and such. Once the changes are brought, we will implement them," Ihusan said.

As per the Act on Prohibition of Gang Violence, an organization, shop or other establishment cannot be given a registered name that represents a gang, or use a logo that represents a gang.

Additionally, if it is proven in court that illegal activities are being carried out under the guise of a registered organization or sports club, then the registration of such an entity can be revoked by the concerned authorities.

However, the names of gangs have not been released to date despite many years having passed since this Act came into effect. The Homeland Security Ministry has said that they will release this list after bringing a number of changes.

Currently, there are sports clubs registered under names which are widely believed amongst the public to be those representing gangs. Many also allege that turf grounds established on government land across Male' are run by such gangs.

Ihusan asserted that gang crimes will not be allowed to continue in the country, vowing to bring an end to it, stating 'there is no doubt' that this would be achieved.