Malaysian Woman Remanded in Maldives Drug Smuggling Case

A Malaysian woman arrested for attempting to smuggle more than two kilograms of drugs into the Maldives has told the court that the package was given to her by a friend and that she travelled to the country at that friend’s expense.

The woman, identified as Ranjini Jeevananthan, 38, was arrested at Velana International Airport on 28 February. Two Maldivian men were also arrested in connection with the case.

The Maldivian suspects have been identified as Ahmed Rishmah, 21, of Sunlight Villa in GA. Dhaandhoo, and Looth Ibrahim, 29, of Furusathu in GDh. Vaadhoo.

According to details presented during a remand hearing held on Sunday, Ranjini told the court that the package she carried had been handed to her by a friend and was intended to be delivered to a man in Malé. Court records also indicated that she had travelled to the Maldives for a three-day visit.

Ranjini was initially remanded in custody for 15 days and was on Sunday remanded for an additional 20 days. The two Maldivian suspects were arrested separately following her detention.

Authorities have not yet disclosed further details regarding the ongoing investigation.