The Maldives has inaugurated its first Police Cyber Security Operations Centre (CSOC) in Malé and broken ground for a state-of-the-art Police Data Centre in Hulhumalé, marking a significant step in the country’s push to strengthen cyber security and law enforcement capabilities.
The two projects are being developed with the support of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Cyber Security Council and were launched during the official visit of the council’s head, Dr Mohamed Al-Kuwaiti, to the Maldives on Sunday.
The foundation stone for the Police Data Centre was laid jointly by Dr Al-Kuwaiti, Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan, and Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed. According to the Maldives Police Service, the new facility will be equipped with advanced digital infrastructure aimed at modernising police operations, improving data security, and enhancing crime prevention measures.
Following the groundbreaking, the newly established CSOC was officially opened at the Shaheed Hussain Adam Building in Malé. The centre, described by police as the nation’s “shield and watchtower” in cyberspace, will monitor, detect, and respond to digital threats while also working to prevent and mitigate cyber risks.
Speaking at the inauguration, Commissioner Hameed emphasised that modern policing requires the ability to address not only physical crimes but also invisible threats in the digital sphere. He expressed gratitude to Minister Ihusan and the UAE for their continued support in developing the Maldives’ cyber security capacity.
Dr Al-Kuwaiti also held discussions with senior police officials on further cooperation, training, and resource-sharing to strengthen the Maldives’ cyber security sector. His visit follows a similar trip in August last year, during which both countries agreed to deepen collaboration in cyber defence and digital safety.
The Maldives government has made cyber security a national priority, recently establishing the National Cyber Security Agency to coordinate policies, strengthen infrastructure, and protect against emerging digital threats.
