Authorities Seize Over 350kg of Suspected Narcotics from Foreign Vessel in Maldivian Waters
Photo: MNDF
Authorities have seized more than 350 kilogrammes of suspected narcotics following the interception of a foreign fishing vessel within the Maldives’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
Statement regarding the interception of a suspected Sri Lankan fishing vessel Avishka Putha within Maldivian waters.
355.9 kg of suspected narcotics were seized, and five individuals have been arrested. pic.twitter.com/SIldvN9pkW— Maldives Police (@PoliceMv) November 10, 2025advertisement
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The vessel, identified as Avishka Putha and believed to be of Sri Lankan origin, was apprehended on 7 November by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard. Drone surveillance had detected the vessel navigating Maldivian waters without authorisation, in breach of national maritime regulations.
Following the interception, MNDF personnel boarded the vessel and discovered multiple sacks suspected to contain illicit substances. The five crew members were taken into custody by the Maldives Police Service along with the vessel.
A court-authorised search later revealed 24 sacks believed to contain narcotics. Preliminary assessments placed the total weight of the seized substances at 355.9 kilogrammes, including approximately 58.6 kilogrammes of suspected heroin and 297.3 kilogrammes of suspected methamphetamine.
The suspects, Sri Lankan nationals aged between 28 and 63, remain in custody. Their arrest represents a significant escalation in regional efforts to combat transnational drug trafficking networks. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the Maldives Police Service, the MNDF, the Sri Lankan Navy, and the Sri Lankan Police.
