The government of Japan has donated five speedboats and three rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs) to Maldives Police Service.
Ambassador of Japan to Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko officially handed over the vessels to the Maldives Police Service at a ceremony held Monday. The ceremony was attended by Deputy Commissioner of Police, Faruhad Fikuree, Executive Officers of the Police, as well as officials from the Japanese government.
Commissioner of Police, Ismail Naveen expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for their assistance to the Maldives police in different areas. He highlighted that the donation will greatly enhance the capabilities of the maritime police, including its ability to enforce laws at sea, protect island communities, and respond to emergency situations more swiftly and efficiently.
"Japan and the Maldives share a long history of friendship. We value Japan’s continued support for our efforts to maintain the safety and security of the Maldives. Once these vessels are commissioned into service, they will be operated professionally, in the service of the people,” the Commissioner said.
Addressing at the ceremony, Ambassador Rumiko said the assistance is aimed at supporting marine safety and law enforcement, noting that the vessels form part of Japan’s broader cooperation with the Maldives to further reinforce security and stability.
The donation is part of a grant agreement signed in May 2022 under the Exchange of Notes, valued at approximately USD 5.1 million. The project focuses on strengthening the operational capabilities of the Maldives Police Service, with a focus on strengthening maritime security and safety in the country's outer islands. It will also help facilitate a swift and effective response to maritime incidents and other safety concerns within the nation’s vast maritime domain.
The Government of Japan expressed hope that these vessels will strengthen the capacity and capability of the Maldives Police Service in providing day-to-day policing across the country effectively and with efficiency.