The Maldivian government has effectively repatriated members of five families who were stranded on the Syrian-Turkish border.
During a press conference, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihsan, revealed that the group brought back to the Maldives today included 15 children, 5 women, and 1 man. The families were transported from Turkey and subsequently detained under the Anti-Terrorism Act at the National Reintegration Centre (NRC) in Himmafushi, Kaafu Atoll. The government assures the public that comprehensive procedures will be followed for their reintegration and overall well-being.
The families were confirmed to be Maldivian citizens after distress signals were received from them on the Syrian-Turkish border. Following discussions initiated by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu during his trip to Turkey, the decision to bring them back at the earliest was made.
Minister Ali Ihsan stated that the families will undergo individual assessments during the initial 30 days at the NRC. After evaluating the assessment reports, a rehabilitation and reintegration committee will devise a programme tailored to their needs for a specified period. Reaffirming the safety of society, the minister assured that no harm would be posed by these families upon their release.
The NRC features four blocks for accommodation: one for women, one for boys under 18, one for men over 18, and one for families. With a capacity of 72 people and five families at a time, the center has previously successfully rehabilitated and released a family after treatment.
Minister Ali Ihsan also disclosed that over 100 Maldivians remain in war-affected areas, with more than 90 expressing their desire to return to the Maldives.