The Maldives Police Service has announced that individuals wearing helmets in areas where they are not legally required will be subject to stop-and-search procedures as part of efforts to curb criminal activities.

According to a police statement, some individuals have been observed using helmets to conceal their identities while engaging in unlawful activities, including theft and group violence.

Authorities noted that such individuals have been seen entering service providers and businesses, raising security concerns.

Under existing traffic regulations, both drivers and passengers must wear helmets in designated areas where vehicles are permitted to travel at speeds exceeding 30 kilometers per hour.

Police stated that signs indicating these areas will be installed to guide the public.

To enhance security, law enforcement will closely monitor individuals wearing helmets outside of these designated zones and will conduct searches on those deemed suspicious.

Crimes such as theft and group fights have been increasingly reported in Male’ and Hulhumale’, with many suspects using helmets to conceal their identities.