Police Shut Down Suspected ‘Drug Cafe’ in Fuvahmulah

Authorities in Fuvahmulah have closed down a property suspected of operating as a “drug cafe”—a venue where illicit substances are allegedly both sold and consumed. The closure was executed last Wednesday following a court order.

This marks the first time a suspected drug cafe has been shut down by authorities in an island municipality outside the capital city of Malé.

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Details of the Closure

According to the Maldives Police Service, the Fuvahmulah Magistrate Court issued an order to close the premises located at Gulistan House in the Funadu district. The action follows allegations that the site was being used to import, traffic, and facilitate the on-site consumption of illegal drugs.

• Duration: The property has been ordered to close for 85 days, effective from May 27, 2026.
• Legal Precedent: This is the first order of its kind issued by the Fuvahmulah Magistrate Court under the Drugs Act to shut down a venue facilitating drug consumption.

The police emphasised that entering or exiting a property closed under such a court order without prior authorisation is a criminal offence. Authorities warned that strict legal action would be taken against anyone trespassing or causing damage to the sealed premises.

The police expressed gratitude to the local community for their continued assistance and cooperation in efforts to curb drug trafficking in Fuvahmulah.