Authorities at Velana International Airport in Malé apprehended a Colombian tourist scheduled to depart on Emirates flight EK653 to Dubai after discovering bullets in his possession. The incident occurred as the passenger was preparing to board the flight, which was set to depart at 23:00 local time.
A police media official reported that the individual was presented to court, resulting in a six-day remand pending further investigation. Due to the ongoing nature of the case, additional details about the suspect have not been disclosed.
This arrest highlights a recurring concern, as previous incidents have involved individuals detained for possession of ammunition at Velana International Airport. For instance, in July 2021, a 60-year-old Namibian man was arrested under similar circumstances, leading to an extension of his remand period during the investigation.
The Maldives enforces strict regulations against unauthorized possession of firearms and ammunition. Travelers are advised to exercise caution and ensure compliance with local laws to avoid severe legal consequences.
