Rising juvenile crime in Hulhumalé Phase 2: Police

Police have raised concerns over the rise in juvenile crime in Hulhumale' Phase 2, saying minors are involved in criminal activity on an almost daily basis.

Speaking at a press conference at Iskandharu Koshi, the head of the Crime Against Children Department, Superintendent of Police Mohamed Shareef, said the growing number of young offenders is a major concern for law enforcement.

“Our biggest concern is that crime is increasing day by day,” Shareef said.

“Across the Greater Male' area; in Vilimale', Hulhumale' and Male' we are seeing this trend. But particularly in Hulhumale' Phase 2, the level of crime involving minors is very high at the moment.” 

He said police are working closely with parents in an effort to keep children away from criminal activity, adding that early intervention is key.

As part of its efforts to prevent gang-related crime, the Crime Against Children Department shares intelligence on at-risk children and compiles data on juvenile offenders. According to Shareef, information has been gathered on more than 300 children identified through these efforts.

Police are taking special measures to steer minors away from crime, including direct engagement with families.

“We are reaching out to parents and informing them about how their children are becoming involved in criminal activity,” Shareef said.

He also noted that work is underway to make the juvenile justice system more inclusive, highlighting rehabilitation programmes ordered by the Juvenile Court. Currently, 71 children are enrolled in rehabilitation programmes being conducted across seven regions of the country.