Two Maldivians Intercepted at Cochin Airport with Undeclared Pharmaceuticals

Two Maldivians were intercepted at Cochin International Airport in India on Sunday while attempting to travel to the Maldives with a substantial quantity of pharmaceuticals lacking the necessary documentation.

According to Indian media reports, the country’s customs air intelligence unit stopped the individuals during routine checks and found they were carrying a large consignment of medication without a technical officer of drugs certificate or a valid import/export licence, both of which are mandatory for bulk transport of pharmaceuticals.

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In a statement issued by Indian Customs, the estimated value of the seized medications was placed between INR 300,000 and INR 500,000 — equivalent to MVR 53,265 to MVR 88,775.

Authorities have confirmed that the medications were confiscated, and both individuals were allowed to return to the Maldives.

The medications were being transported in hand luggage, and authorities have yet to establish a clear purpose for the attempted transfer. However, Indian Customs suggested the pharmaceuticals may have been intended for retail distribution within the Maldives.

An investigation is underway to determine whether any of the seized drugs fall under the category of banned or controlled substances that could be misused as narcotics.

Due to the comparatively lower cost of medicines in India, it is common for Maldivians to source medications from the country, both for personal use and resale.