Minister of Defence Mariya Ahmed Didi has stated Maldives Customs Service plays a significant role in safeguarding the nation and maintaining its sovereignty.
Speaking at a function held at Maldives Customs Service to mark the International Customs Day, Minister Mariya stated customs have been moved under the defence ministry by President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih as it plays an important role in border patrol in Maldives. Mariya further said customs collaborates with various government authorities in mitigating drug traffickers, in addition to managing duty of items exported from and imported to Maldives. She also applauded the role customs play in preventing the import of weaponry into Maldives.
Highlighting the biggest challenge Maldives faces currently is trafficking of drugs, Minister Mariya said the country also needs to be alert on terror attacks as such attacks are prevalent in the world. The minister said the role of customs widens with such a perspective.
Mariya called on officers to report any activities involving corruption in the importance economic activity customs performs noting that the government has a zero-tolerance policy on corruption. She commended the customs staff as no complaints have been reported against customs officer.
Furthermore, the defence minister also highlighted the significant number of educated, qualified and women employees working in customs and called on the employees to stay committed in their services.