The National Drug Agency (NDA) has announced that rehabilitation has commenced for 65 percent of the drug addicts who have been waitlisted for treatment over the past six months. This initiative is part of a broader effort to address the country's ongoing issues with drug abuse.

On December 10, the NDA launched a special operation named ‘Fanaavaru’ aimed at providing community-based rehabilitation for over 700 individuals referred by the Drug Court. According to the NDA, treatment has begun for 446 of these individuals, who are now at various stages of the program.

However, the agency noted that 254 individuals have yet to start their treatment due to “various reasons.”

In addition to the community-based rehabilitation efforts, the NDA is exploring the possibility of implementing in-prison rehabilitation programs for inmates. The agency is also collaborating with local health centers and has expanded its services to 110 islands to enhance access to rehabilitation.

Drug trafficking and abuse remain significant social and public health challenges in the Maldives, with drug-related offenses constituting a large proportion of the country's criminal activity. The NDA's efforts are a crucial step toward addressing these issues and improving the overall well-being of affected individuals.