Minister says intoxicated driving, including drug-positive cases, is rising across Maldives

Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan says the number of vehicles being driven under the influence of alcohol has become “unusually high,” warning that dangerous road behaviour is costing lives.

Speaking at the Ahaa Forum, Ihusaan said valuable lives have been lost in recent dangerous road accidents. He said it is deeply distressing for every police officer to witness Maldivians suffering severe injuries while officers are working to enforce the law.

The minister noted that abnormal speeding is a major issue in several highly populated islands. He said the Government’s top priority, in Male' and other major cities, is to establish dedicated traffic-police services to improve enforcement and road discipline.

Ihusaan said many accidents occur because unlicensed drivers are operating vehicles without passing the required tests. As a result, he said, a significant number of accidents are caused by people who do not properly know road rules.

He also highlighted a growing concern.

“We have noticed an unusual number of vehicles being driven under the influence of alcohol. Maldives Police are working with great attention on this,” he said.

The minister said several lives have been lost in recent accidents. A 26-year-old woman died on Friday after suffering critical injuries in a fatal accident on Sosun Magu on the night of the 19th of this month.

Accidents continue to occur daily in the capital. According to Police statistics, 2,100 accidents have been reported so far this year.