Four individuals have been arrested in Malé following a targeted anti narcotics operation that led to the seizure of more than 377 grams of illicit drugs, police confirmed.
The arrests were made during a joint operation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Department and Counter Narcotics Intelligence, based on prior intelligence indicating drug use, possession, and trafficking activities in the capital. Authorities searched a guesthouse and a residential apartment in Malé, where illicit substances were discovered.
Police identified the suspects as Hassan Anas, 22, Dhaftharu No. RS. 10367, Malé; Moosa Shaheem, 22, Athagasdhoshuge, Doodigan, Gn. Fuvahmulah; Hussain Sharuwaan, 25, Aaveli, B. Goidhoo; and Nisha Rai, 21, a Nepali national. The total weight of the seized drugs was confirmed at 377.39 grams.
All four suspects were presented before the Criminal Court for remand hearings. Hassan Anas was remanded in custody for 15 days, while Moosa Shaheem and Hussain Sharuwaan were each remanded for five days. Nisha Rai was initially remanded for one day.
Following the expiration of her first remand period, Nisha Rai was brought before the court twice more. She was granted a second one day remand, after which the court ordered a further five day remand during her third appearance.
Police stated that the Drug Enforcement Department is continuing its investigation into the case, including potential links to wider drug distribution networks. Authorities reiterated their commitment to intensifying intelligence led operations as part of the ongoing national crackdown on narcotics related crimes in the Maldives.
