Authorities in the Maldives have seized 15.38 kilograms of drugs, valued at MVR 12.3 million, in a significant bust involving a Malaysian national. The seizure occurred last Saturday, marking the largest drug confiscation of the year to date.
In a press briefing today, Customs Superintendent Mohamed Afzal confirmed that a Malaysian citizen was apprehended with the substantial drug haul. This incident represents the first recorded attempt by a Malaysian to smuggle drugs into the Maldives, highlighting an unusual and notable case.
During the search, customs officials discovered counterfeit tickets and other suspicious documents. Superintendent Afzal explained that the individual’s travel route included flights from Bangkok to Dubai and then to the Maldives.
In connection with the case, another Malaysian, a 41-year-old man, was arrested on the same day. Both individuals have been remanded in custody for five days as investigations continue. The police suspect that the operation involved suspects from four different countries and are working with international agencies to uncover the full extent of the network.
During today’s press conference, it was also revealed that 116 foreign nationals have been deported this year due to drug-related offenses. The ongoing investigation aims to identify and apprehend additional individuals involved in this case.
Police and customs officials are working with foreign agencies to address and resolve the broader implications of this significant drug trafficking case.
