Maldives Insight

MALÉ, Maldives – The Maldivian government has repatriated a mother and her 14-year-old daughter from Turkey, where they had been stranded after travelling to Syria. Home Affairs Minister Ali Ihusan announced that rehabilitation efforts for the two individuals have commenced following their return.

Minister Ihusan confirmed at a press conference that the mother and daughter are currently receiving services at the National Reintegration Centre, located in Himmafushi, Kaafu Atoll.

Government Repatriation Programme Underway

This repatriation is part of a broader government initiative focused on bringing back Maldivian families who travelled to Syria and other conflict-affected countries. These individuals had reportedly gone to participate in what they termed “jihad” and subsequently became stranded.

The repatriated mother and daughter were among three Maldivian nationals identified as being stranded in Turkey. Their return signifies ongoing efforts by the government to address the presence of Maldivian citizens in international conflict zones.

Broader Efforts and Potential Legal Action

Minister Ihusan further detailed that 23 individuals have previously been successfully reintegrated into society following rehabilitation. The government is also working to repatriate approximately 60 Maldivian nationals believed to be in two distinct regions of Syria, as well as others stranded in various war-torn countries.

The Minister had previously stated that individuals repatriated through this programme who are found to have committed prosecutable offences would face charges under Maldivian law.