Maldives Customs Seizes Over One Kilogram of Drugs at Velana International Airport

Maldives Customs Service has intercepted more than one kilogram of drugs that were allegedly being smuggled into the Maldives by air.

The authority reported that the drugs, identified as amphetamine, were seized at Velana International Airport on 22 April. The confiscated substances weighed 1,150 grams and have an estimated street value of MVR 3.3 million.

The seizure follows a similar operation conducted late last month, during which Customs officials confiscated drugs valued at MVR 3.9 million that were also allegedly being smuggled into the country via air routes.

Drug trafficking continues to pose a significant challenge in the Maldives, prompting stricter enforcement and legislative measures. The Drug Act has been amended to include the death penalty for individuals convicted of trafficking certain types of narcotics exceeding specified quantities.