Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen stated that the capacity of the marine police and their ability to enforce the law at sea will be greatly enhanced with the use of the vessels donated by the Japanese government to the Maldives Police Service.
The Japanese government donated five speedboats and two operational crafts to the Maldives Police Service yesterday. At a special ceremony held in Dhoonidhoo yesterday, the vessels were handed over on behalf of the Japanese government by the Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko. Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen received the vessels on behalf of the Maldives Police Service.
Speaking after officially receiving the vessels, Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen expressed his gratitude to the Japanese government for donating the vessels to the police service and for their assistance in various ways. He noted that with these vessels, the capacity of the marine police will be greatly increased, enhancing their ability to enforce the law at sea, ensuring the safety of island communities, and accelerating and improving the police's response to emergencies.
He also highlighted that the Maldives and Japan are two countries with a long history of friendship, and acknowledged the assistance provided by the Japanese government to the efforts of the police in maintaining the safety and security of the Maldives. He added that when these vessels are put into service, they will be used professionally in the best interest of the public.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko, stated that the purpose of these vessels is to develop the capacity of the Marine Police, and to assist in maritime safety and security as well as law enforcement at sea. She expressed hope that this assistance will increase the capacity of the Maldivian police to face challenges at sea. She also mentioned that this assistance was provided under Japan's ongoing cooperation to further strengthen the Maldives Police Service and ensure public safety and security.
She noted that at a time when domestic airports are increasing and tourism is rapidly developing across the Maldives, the need for quick-response vessels has become very important for the police service, and that receiving such vessels is an important step towards expanding the police service across the country. She also stated that a strong and developing relationship has been established between Japan and the Maldives, and that this relationship has expanded significantly, especially in the areas of law enforcement and public safety.
In recognition of the Japanese government's assistance in providing various resources for the advancement and infrastructure development of the police institution, a commemorative plaque was presented on behalf of the Maldives Police Service at the ceremony. The plaque was received by the Ambassador of Japan to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko.
Last year, the Japanese government also donated 54 cars and four vans to the Maldives Police Service. In addition to land and sea vessels, they have also donated drug field test kits, precursor field test kits, Raman handheld field identification kits, and other items.
