The Criminal Court has ordered the detention of a 21-year-old Dutch national accused of attempting to traffic a large quantity of narcotics into the Maldives.
According to court documents, the suspect — identified as Briteny Adofo Baofo of the Netherlands — was arrested after authorities discovered five kilograms of drugs concealed in her luggage upon arrival. Police submitted evidence linking her to the offence, prompting the court to authorize detention under Article 49 of the Constitution and Articles 59 and 60 of the Criminal Procedure Act.
Judge Ibrahim Zihuny issued the order on 22 August 2025, directing that Baofo be held in a custodial jail for 30 days, until 21 September 2025. The court emphasized that the detention was necessary for “the safety and security of society” citing provisions of the Criminal Procedure Regulation that allow for extended custody when there is reasonable suspicion of serious offences.
During the hearing, defense counsel argued that the suspect’s luggage had been tampered with and stressed her inability to cooperate with a controlled delivery due to her lack of knowledge about the contents. The lawyer also highlighted that Baofo is pregnant, urging authorities to expedite the investigation in light of her medical condition.
In its ruling, the court prohibited her from leaving the country and instructed investigators to closely monitor her health throughout detention.
Drug trafficking is considered a serious criminal offence in the Maldives, carrying heavy penalties including lengthy imprisonment. The case has reignited public attention on the Maldives’ strict anti-narcotics stance and the frequent arrests of foreign nationals attempting to smuggle drugs through Malé’s Velana International Airport.
