After 50 years without screening, Maafushi Prison installs baggage scanner to tighten security

A baggage-scanning machine has been installed at Maafushi Prison for the first time in 50 years, inaugurated by Homeland Minister Ali Ihusaan on June 15, 2026. The scanner, donated by Maldives Airports Company Ltd (MACL), will screen all items brought by inmates, families, and visitors. Minister Ihusaan stated the government aims to scan 100% of items entering prisons, following President Muizzu's directive to install scanning machines before year-end. The minister noted it was surprising the prison operated half a century without such basic security.

A baggage-scanning machine has been installed at Maafushi Prison for the first time in 50 years, inaugurated by Homeland Minister Ali Ihusaan on June 15, 2026. The scanner, donated by Maldives Airports Company Ltd (MACL), will screen all items brought by inmates, families, and visitors. Minister Ihusaan stated the government aims to scan 100% of items entering prisons, following President Muizzu's directive to install scanning machines before year-end. The minister noted it was surprising the prison operated half a century without such basic security.

A baggage-scanning machine has been installed at Maafushi Prison for the first time in 50 years, inaugurated by Homeland Minister Ali Ihusaan on June 15, 2026. The scanner, donated by Maldives Airports Company Ltd (MACL), will screen all items brought by inmates, families, and visitors. Minister Ihusaan stated the government aims to scan 100% of items entering prisons, following President Muizzu's directive to install scanning machines before year-end. The minister noted it was surprising the prison operated half a century without such basic security.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of governance / prison security.