Japan Donates Marine Vessels to Maldives Police Service

Japan Donates Marine Vessels to Maldives Police Service

Japan has donated eight marine vessels to the Maldives Police Service to support efforts to strengthen maritime security across the country.

At a ceremony held yesterday, the Japanese government handed over five launches and three rigid-hulled inflatable boats (RHIBs). The vessels were officially presented to the police by the Japanese Ambassador to the Maldives, Ishigami Rumiko.

According to the Japanese Embassy, the donation aims to enhance the Maldives’ capacity to ensure safety at sea and improve overall maritime security. The vessels are part of a project under the Exchange of Notes signed in May 2022, through which Japan is providing grant aid worth JPY 650 million—approximately USD 5.1 million or MVR 78.6 million.

The project focuses on boosting the operational capabilities of the Maldives Police Service, particularly in improving safety and security in the island nation’s extensive maritime areas.

The Embassy stated that the new vessels will allow police to respond swiftly to maritime accidents and other incidents at sea. Japan expects the donation to support the daily operations of police and contribute to safer waters throughout the Maldives.