Minister of Homeland Security Ali Ihsaan has said that protecting the community from the drug problem is the Maldives Police Service's most important mission.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the 42nd Basic Training Course of the Maldives Police Service, Ihsaan described drug abuse as one of the country's biggest challenges. He said the illegal drug trade finances organized crime and has caused long-term harm to families and individuals.

The minister stressed that public trust is the police's greatest strength and urged officers to serve the public with honesty, professionalism and humility to maintain that trust.

Ihsaan said police efforts against drug traffickers will be further strengthened, with the full impact of these measures expected to be seen next year. He also called on officers to remain vigilant and prepared to respond to crime in their communities.