Senior Police Officers Suspected in Cigarette Smuggling Operation at VIA

Authorities have revealed that an investigation has been launched into several senior police officers suspected of involvement in a cigarette smuggling operation at Velana International Airport (VIA).

According to Maldives Customs Service, the smuggled cigarette cartons were found hidden in trash bags being removed from the Departure Terminal. The incident has since triggered a wider probe into potential misconduct involving high-ranking police personnel.

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The Home Ministry stated that an investigation is underway targeting several senior officers. Authorities suspect significant amounts of money were channelled through the accounts of those allegedly involved.

The case has led to three arrests. On 25 March, two individuals were initially detained: Ahmed Afsal, 45, of M. Silver Nest, and Yoosuf Nazeer, 38, listed under Dhafthar RS14358. While both have since been released, Nazeer—identified as a serving police officer—has been suspended from duty without pay.

A third suspect, Mohamed Aiham, 23, of Gaskara, N. Velidhoo, was later arrested. Aiham is a member of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) stationed at the airport.

While the authorities confirmed the attempted smuggling of a substantial quantity of cigarettes, the precise volume has not been disclosed by the police.

The incident comes amid the government’s heightened anti-tobacco measures. In December last year, the Maldives imposed a complete ban on vape products and all related items.