Police should disclose information in a way that does not hinder their duties: President

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that when revealing information regarding an investigation, Police should do so in a manner that does not hinder their responsibilities, and in a way that does not allow other persons to take undue advantage of it.

The President made this statement while speaking at the ceremony held last night at the Hulhumale' Synthetic Track to commemorate Maldives Police Service's 92nd anniversary.

The President said that while some changes need to be brought to current Police procedures, disclosing or withholding information is one of the areas. He said that this would play a key role in maintaining public trust in the institution to the necessary degree.

"I wish for procedures to be changed so that when you attend any incident, as soon as the investigation is commenced, information is shared with the public," he said.

He said that this is the path to establishing Police as a transparent institution which the public has confidence in.

The President said that this would be best deterrent taken against those who irresponsibly spread misinformation and discord with political intentions. However, he cautioned that information should be disclosed in a manner that does not hinder Police responsibilities.

"Information should be given to the extent that it does not hinder your efforts to gather evidence, or allow for evidence to be tampered with. Justice and rule of law will be established then, and transparency will be increased."

The President stated that he does not believe the Police institution will lie to the public. He said that there is no benefit for Police in lying to the public, and asserted that the Police would not do such a thing.

He alleged that accusations of Police lying to public were being spread by those who wished to create discord and discontent amongst the public.

"We must remain patient and allow Police to fulfill their duties."