Aviation Security Command renamed, takes over security of MPL ports

Aviation Security Command has been renamed the Aviation and Ports Security Command and will assume responsibility for security at international seaports operated by Maldives Ports Limited (MPL).

MPL operates several major ports, including the Malé Commercial Harbour, Hulhumalé Port, Haa Dhaalu Kulhudhuffushi Port and Addu Hithadhoo Port. Until now, security at these facilities had been managed directly by MPL.

In a statement, the President’s Office said President Dr Mohamed Muizzu had decided to transfer responsibility for seaport security to the command, which operates under the Ministry of Defence, to ensure that international ports are overseen by a specialised government agency.

The Aviation and Ports Security Command, staffed by specially trained officers, was assigned the additional role following a number of security breaches reported at MPL ports.

One of the most serious incidents involved a container of illegally imported cigarettes that was seized by customs but later went missing while being held at Hulhumalé port.

After years of security at Velana International Airport being handled by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), a separate Aviation Security Command was established by presidential decree in 2013.