Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed has stated police stations in the atolls will be granted access to the database of International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol) next year.
Speaking to PSM News, the police commissioner said arrangements have been made within the past two years for Maldives Police Service (MPS) to access different resources of Interpol. Noting Interpol access is currently only granted to a special department of MPS, the commissioner said he plans to provide Interpol access to other departments involved in different operations. He added Interpol access will also be provided to officers working in 85 police stations established across the atolls.
Commissioner Hameed noted providing access to Interpol database will help to identify international criminals involved in terrorism and organised crime. Noting several foreigners are active in the atolls in guesthouse businesses and other activities, the commissioner highlighted the importance of staying alert against international criminals in the atolls as well.
Interpol is an international organisation that facilitates worldwide police cooperation and crime control. Interpol provides investigative support, expertise, and training to law enforcement worldwide, focusing on three major areas of transnational crime: terrorism, cybercrime, and organised crime. The agency also facilitates cooperation among national law enforcement institutions through criminal databases and communications networks.