Authorities Seize Over 1.3 Tonnes of Illicit Drugs Worth MVR 1.4 Billion, Homeland Security Minister Discloses

Maldivian law enforcement authorities have confiscated more than 1.3 tonnes of illicit drugs since the current administration took office, Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan has stated, pointing to an intensification of counter-narcotics operations across the country.

Speaking during a session of the  People’s National Congress, Minister Ihusaan cited official police statistics showing that the total quantity of narcotics seized over the government’s tenure stands at 1.33 tonnes. The confiscated substances carry an estimated street value of approximately MVR 1.4 billion.

In addition to narcotics, the Minister disclosed that law enforcement officers have intercepted 16,852 bottles of alcohol intended for illegal distribution in inhabited islands. The seizures have led authorities to suspend operating permits for several entities implicated in the illicit trade.

Detailing the law enforcement response, Ihusaan noted that police officers have conducted targeted raids on designated drug networks and distribution dens on 180 occasions. A total of 508 dedicated operations aimed at disrupting narcotics supply chains have been carried out, while 23 drug-related cases are currently being investigated under financial crimes and money laundering.