Police Seize Cigarettes And Cash In Hulhumalé Raid

MV+ News Desk | September 24, 2025
Photo: MPS

Two expatriates have been arrested in Hulhumalé on suspicion of engaging in unlawful business involving cigarettes and money.

According to the Maldives Police Service, the arrests were made on Monday as part of a nationwide operation targeting illegal migrants engaged in criminal activities and unauthorised businesses. The operation is being carried out in collaboration with Maldives Immigration and Maldives Customs Service.

The suspects, identified as Bangladeshi nationals aged 37 and 22, were detained following a search of residential buildings in Hulhumalé known to house undocumented migrants. During the operation, police recovered a significant quantity of cigarette boxes, tobacco packets, and cash in both Maldivian Rufiyaa and US Dollars, believed to be linked to the illegal trade.

A total of 13 police officers, three Immigration officials, and three Customs officers took part in Monday’s raid.

Maldives Immigration confirmed that the nationwide crackdown began on Sunday. The first phase is centred on Malé, with subsequent phases set to cover densely populated islands before extending to smaller communities.

The initiative was announced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on Saturday evening, who stated that its aim is to identify and close down businesses being operated unlawfully by foreigners. He also noted that the operation would prioritise larger populations and include the deportation of offenders.

ރިއެކްޝަންސް
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
LATEST