Two officers from the Maldives Police Service recently participated in a specialized regional training program in Visakhapatnam, India, focused on countering illicit maritime activities, according to the Maldives Police Service.
The program, titled "Coordinated Response to Illicit Maritime Activities in the Indian Ocean Region," was organized by the Colombo Security Conclave and held from September 9 to 11, 2026. The Maldives was represented by Inspector of Police Nadeem Habeeb and Sub-Inspector of Police Zaheeru Eesa from the Marine Police.
According to the Maldives Police Service, the program aimed to strengthen information-sharing mechanisms and enhance maritime domain awareness among member states. Participants explored the legal frameworks and procedures required to intercept and prosecute vessels involved in unlawful maritime acts, while also engaging in practical drills to foster operational coordination between navies, coast guards, customs agencies, intelligence units, and maritime law enforcement bodies.
Additionally, the training focused on establishing standardized protocols for responding to cross-border maritime crimes, addressing operational challenges, and exchanging international best practices to ensure long-term regional maritime safety and security.
