Individual linked with international drug network, charged in the Maldives

An individual, who was working with a large network involved in drug trafficking around the world, has been charged for bringing drugs in to the Maldives.

The charges pressed by the State against the Philippine national states that she was carrying drugs when she arrived in the Maldives on an Emirates flight which landed at 8:50 a.m. on 24 April 2013.

Tests revealed that the drugs carried by the suspect contained 3.2 kg cocaine, claimed the State.

Media official of the Criminal Court Ahmed Mohamed Manik said that the first hearing on this case was held at 9:00 a.m. today, during which the State presented its claims, followed by the defendant requesting to appoint a lawyer.

Manik said that the defendant will be given the opportunity at the next session, to present her defence statement through a lawyer.

The suspect was caught in a collaborative operation conducted by Dubai Police, Maldives Police Service and Maldives Customs Service.