New Gang Act Enforced: Indirect Involvement in Organised Groups Now a Crime in Maldives

The Maldives has officially begun implementing the 'Prevention of Gang and Other Serious Offences Act (Act No. 7/2025)', a powerful new law that treats even indirect involvement with organized groups as a criminal offense.

Ratified by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on May 25, 2025, the Act came into force today, three months after its passage by the People’s Majlis during its 32nd session. It is being hailed as the country’s strongest-ever legal framework to combat gangs and organized crime.

A key clause of the Act establishes that not only direct members of gangs but also those who support, associate with, or are indirectly involved with such groups can face criminal liability. This sweeping provision is designed to dismantle the wider networks that enable organized crime to operate.

In addition, the Act empowers courts to officially designate gangs and individuals as part of organized criminal groups. It introduces measures for confiscating illicit wealth and assets, criminalizes financial support to gangs, and strengthens monitoring of high-risk offenders.

Special emphasis is also placed on protecting minors, with strict safeguards to prevent children from being recruited into gangs an issue that has plagued communities for years.

Law enforcement agencies have been granted enhanced powers under the Act, enabling more proactive policing and surveillance against networks that fuel intimidation, violence, and drug-related activities.

Authorities say the new framework is meant to fill gaps left by previous laws, which were criticized for failing to curb the growing influence of gangs in the Maldives.

With implementation now underway, officials have warned that both direct and indirect involvement with organized criminal groups will carry serious consequences.