Three arrested over attempt to smuggle 3.3kg drugs into Maldives via air transport

Three individuals have been arrested in connection with an alleged attempt to smuggle more than 3.3 kilograms of drugs into the Maldives through Gan International Airport.

The seizure was carried out by the Maldives Customs Service. In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Customs confirmed that the narcotics were intercepted last Tuesday.

Customs identified the seized substance as cannabis, with a total weight of 3,345 grams (3.3 kilograms). The drugs were discovered during a search of luggage belonging to two Indian nationals who arrived from India on Tuesday, October 22, after authorities suspected that they were concealing narcotics.

The Maldives Police Service confirmed on Friday that three individuals have been taken into custody in connection with the case. The suspects comprise of two Indian nationals and one Maldivian. The foreign nationals were identified as Vivek Amban, 24, and Shahmil Pali Parambath, 32. The Maldivian national arrested in connection with the case was identified as Abdulla Ibrahim, 36, of Kumereege, Hoadhandu, Gn. Fuvahmulah.

The Police stated that the two Indian nationals were arrested based on information provided by Customs. The Maldivian suspect was apprehended during a controlled delivery operation conducted jointly by the South Police Serious Crime Investigation, Counter-Narcotics Operations, and Police Intelligence.

When the suspects were presented before the court, Abdulla Ibrahim was remanded in custody for 15 days. The two Indian nationals, meanwhile, were remanded pending the outcome of their trial. The Police said the investigation into the case remains ongoing.

Drug-related offenses have emerged as one of the most pressing concerns in the country. As drug-related crimes continue to increase, authorities have also observed significant involvement of foreign nationals in such activities.

Relevant authorities are implementing targeted measures to prevent the smuggling of narcotics into the Maldives and to take legal action against foreign nationals involved in such offenses. As part of these efforts, police and Customs have strengthened cooperation to enhance security at airports and maritime entry points. Foreign nationals convicted of such offenses may face arrest, prosecution, imprisonment, and deportation.

Additionally, authorities are actively pursuing intelligence-sharing efforts with regional agencies to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking networks.