The Criminal Court has granted a 30-day remand extension for three individuals arrested during a counter-narcotics operation in Malé that uncovered over a kilogram of suspected drugs alongside hundreds of drug-infused vape cartridges.
The suspects, identified as Hussain Shaavin, 26, Mariyam Easha Ashraf, 21, and Mohamed Nahil, 25, face allegations involving the use, possession, trafficking, and commercial distribution of illicit narcotics.
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The trio was originally apprehended on September 2 during a police operation targeting an illicit drug distribution network in the capital. A subsequent search of a residence in the Maafannu district yielded approximately 1.7 kilograms of suspected narcotics, 230 vape cartridges containing illicit substances, 26 bottles of vape flavouring, and a bottle of alcohol, according to police.
During the latest custody hearing on November 6, the Criminal Court extended their detention for 30 days, marking the fourth time their remand has been prolonged since their initial arrest.
According to court remand orders, investigators presented extensive evidence linking the trio to the narcotics seized inside the Maafannu residence:
The court ruled that releasing the suspects would pose a severe threat to public safety under statutory provisions governing dangerous offences.
The court also noted that while the Prosecutor General’s Office has begun accepting case documents to initiate formal prosecution, ongoing investigative steps should proceed without stalling proceedings, directing investigators to transmit all outstanding files swiftly to protect the constitutional right to a speedy trial.
