The Criminal Court has issued remand orders for four suspects alleged to be principal actors in the theft of two cigarette containers held by Maldives Customs and stored at the Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) Hulhumalé International Terminal. The containers were reportedly stolen on April 26, 2025.
According to court documents and police statements, the suspects and their detention durations are:
- Ahmed Arif (61), of M. Everglory, K. Malé — 15 days
- Zivaar Ismail (40), of Medhureege, HDh. Vaikaradhoo — 15 days
- Mohamed Waheed (65), of Dhigali, B. Eydhafushi — 10 days
- Muaz Ali (48), of H. New Happiness, K. Malé — 5 days
All four were arrested late last night in connection to the heist of the seized containers.
So far, 12 individuals have been placed under travel bans, and authorities have conducted searches of vessels and locations linked to the scheme. The police describe the four arrested as the main planners and executors, including two businessmen and one senior Customs officer among them.
Investigations remain active, with further court proceedings likely as more evidence is gathered and additional persons of interest are identified.
