Escalating violence tarnishing the image of Maldives- MATI

The Maldives Association of Tourism Industry (MATI) has expressed concern that that recent escalation of assault using lethal weapons, battery, murder, gang related violence and other organised crime are tarnishing the image of Maldives as a hospitable, safe and secure environment.

MATI expressed the concern during yesterdays meeting with the National Crime Prevention Committee formed by the President to resolve the increasing incidence of serious and organised crime in the country.

At the meeting held at the President´s Office, members of MATI’s executive underlined the need for expeditious measures to make the society safer and free from crime. They praised the President´s leadership in organising both state and government institutions as well as the society to act to this end.

MATI highlighted the importance of a concerted effort from the whole country and the public to abate serious and violent crimes. The association also called on all concerned parties to expedite implementing immediate measures to find an urgent solution to the matter.

At the meeting, Chairperson of the Crime Prevention Committee Ameen Faisal said that it has held successful discussions with state and government institutions on immediate measures necessary to prevent serious crime and MATI is a very important institution in this regard.

MATI is a non-governmental, nonprofit organization formed in 1982, for the purpose of promoting tourism in the Maldives. Its membership comprises of Maldives companies and individuals engaged in travel and tourism related activities; local and foreign travel agents; tour operators, dive bases, suppliers, airlines, banks and financial institution.