President Mohamed Muizzu on Sunday signed into law a controversial bill aimed at tackling gang-related and other serious crimes, granting police broader powers, including warrantless searches and delaying access to legal counsel for detainees.

The Prevention of Gang Crimes and Other Other Serious Offences Act was signed at a ceremony at the President’s Office. Speaking afterwards, Muizzu said, “This is a very important work that has started today,” and answered questions from journalists about the implications of the new legislation.

The bill, submitted on behalf of the government by Machchangolhi South MP Musthafa Hussain, was passed with amendments by the Judiciary Committee and later approved by parliament on 15 May with 55 votes in favour. No members voted against, while 11 abstained.

Under the legislation, police are authorised to search individuals, private property, land and sea vehicles without a court warrant. They are also allowed to collect physical evidence and samples. Authorities may deny detainees access to legal counsel for up to 48 hours after arrest.

Persons convicted of forming or leading an organised crime group may face up to 25 years in prison and fines ranging between MVR 3 million and MVR 10 million. Aiding or abetting gang activities could result in sentences of up to 18 years and fines between MVR 2 million and MVR 5 million.

A person found guilty of recruiting members into gangs faces imprisonment of up to 20 years and fines ranging from MVR 2 million to MVR 7 million. Involving minors in gang activities carries a sentence of up to 25 years and fines as high as MVR 10 million.

Gang membership will be determined by courts based on factors such as the use of gang symbols, close ties with known members, receiving benefits from gangs, and participation in gang-directed activities.

The Act also bans gang-related symbols or markings on the body or personal items. It provides for the forfeiture of property belonging to individuals arrested for gang crimes, even before conviction.

The law will take effect three months after ratification.