Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan stated last night that the biggest mission handed over to the police that is to be done successfully is to save Maldives from the drug epidemic.

While speaking as an honored guest at the police's graduation ceremony for basic training, Ihusaan said that one of the biggest obstacles for security in Maldives is the drug epidemic, and that it has been an obstacle for years. He went on to say that the drug epidemic is something that destroys lives, and is an issue that has always been a point of stress in families.

According to him, even though it is a difficult task, the last two years that have been spent in this pursuit has resulted in achievements the police should be proud of. He stated that within the remainder of the current government's term, the efforts from the police officers that have finished their basic training and go out into the field will result in a solution that the people want.

As per the minister, the world of crime the police officers that have graduated will go out into has changed significantly.

"Times have changed, and especially with the changes to technology, the world of crime has changed as well," said Ihusaan.

The Homeland Minister went on to say that these changes include the way drug traffickers conduct financial transactions, organized crime and crimes within cyberspace. Crimes related to money laundering with digital currencies and crimes against children and women are also included, said Ihusaan. Some others are crimes being carried out with the aid of technology and social media influence.

"This is the environment you will be going out into from tomorrow onward. Basic training is not enough when going out into such a challenging criminal environment," said Ihusaan.

The minister appealed to the police to become more technologically aware and to seek more training in preparation for the obstacles they will come across due to the state of crime.