Juvenile long-term detention facility opens in Himmafushi

A long term security facility for juvenile offenders has opened at Asseyri Prison in Himmafushi.

The centre, legally required for the detention of minors sentenced to long-term confinement, was officially inaugurated on Thursday by Home Minister Ali Ihusan.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister Ihusan described the facility as a key step in strengthening law enforcement capacity.

The Juvenile Long Term Secure Facility will offer age appropriate education alongside psychological support, counselling, psychiatric care, Islamic guidance and life skills training for detained children.

The move follows the opening of the Juvenile Halfway House, a residential treatment centre for children in Haa Alifu atoll Hoarafushi in January.

According to the government, there are around 200 children currently listed as being involved in criminal activity.