Over 1,500 Arrests and 726kg of Drugs Seized in Maldives, Reveals Minister
Cannabis Disguised as Vape Oil Seized by Authorities Last Year | Photo: Minister of Homeland Security & Technology via X
Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan, has revealed that authorities have arrested 1,580 individuals and seized over 700 kilograms of drugs as part of a wide-ranging crackdown on narcotics over the past 18 months.
Providing an update on the government’s ongoing efforts to address the drug crisis in the Maldives, Minister Ihusan said that the primary objective remains to significantly reduce the amount of illegal drugs entering the country. The crackdown is also aimed at disrupting distribution networks and dismantling trafficking operations.
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Statistics shared by the Minister show that 726 kilograms of drugs and 14,200 bottles of alcohol have been confiscated during this period. The total estimated street value of these seizures stands at USD 90.8 million. Authorities conducted 275 operations leading to the arrests and subsequent prosecution of suspects involved in trafficking and distribution.
Minister stated that the government’s current approach prioritises the interception of trafficked drugs and focuses investigations on high-level traffickers rather than street-level dealers. He described the results as a significant blow to the drug trade.
In addition to enforcement actions, the government is working to improve the country’s treatment and rehabilitation infrastructure. The Minister acknowledged that existing facilities are inadequate to meet the needs of the growing number of drug users. He noted that establishing a comprehensive and effective rehabilitation system would be a key focus for both this year and the next.
As part of this initiative, the National Drug Agency (NDA) has assigned the state-owned Road Development Corporation (RDC) to construct new rehabilitation centres on three islands. The designated sites for these centres are Velidhoo in Noonu Atoll, Kaashidhoo in Kaafu Atoll, and Gan in Laamu Atoll.
Minister also confirmed that legislative changes to the Drugs Act are currently being pursued. Proposed amendments include provisions for the seizure of assets belonging to drug traffickers, with such assets to be reinvested into drug prevention and rehabilitation efforts. The revisions aim to introduce more sustainable and long-term measures in tackling the drug crisis.
