Maldives Customs has intercepted a large quantity of suspected narcotics concealed inside bottles of chocolate syrup that were being brought into the country through Malé Port, foiling what authorities believe was a major drug trafficking attempt with an estimated street value exceeding MVR 30 million.
The detection was made during a routine inspection at Malé Port, when customs officers scanning an inbound shipment identified irregularities in several bottles of chocolate syrup. Suspecting that the contents had been altered, officers isolated the items and conducted chemical testing. Initial test results returned positive for hashish oil, a prohibited narcotic substance, a Customs official confirmed in comments to Public Service Media.
Authorities estimate the total weight of the seized narcotics to be more than 40 kilograms, indicating an operation of significant scale. Law enforcement officials noted that traffickers increasingly exploit everyday consumer goods, including food products and liquids, to evade detection at ports of entry.
The Maldives Customs Service and Maldives Police Service has launched a full investigation to trace the origin of the shipment, its intended recipients, and any individuals or organised networks linked to the case. Officials have not disclosed whether arrests have been made, citing the sensitivity of ongoing investigations.
The seizure comes amid an intensified national campaign against drugs under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who has pledged zero tolerance toward narcotics and those who traffic them. The President has repeatedly warned that drugs pose a serious threat to national security, social stability, and Maldivian youth, and has directed enforcement agencies to strengthen border controls and dismantle trafficking networks. Customs officials said the interception at Malé Port reflects that pledge being actively enforced at the country’s primary entry points.
