The Maldives Police Service has revealed alarming new details in the ongoing investigation into the theft of two containers of seized cigarettes, exposing a sophisticated operation involving fake containers, altered vessels, and destruction of evidence.
According to the police statement, the Maldives Customs Service reported the case on October 9, 2025, after discovering that two containers of cigarettes—previously confiscated and stored at the Hulhumalé International Terminal of Maldives Ports Limited (MPL)—had been stolen on April 26, 2025.
Nine Arrested, Seven Held Until Trial
Police confirmed the arrest of nine individuals, including key planners, active participants, and the captain of the vessel used in the crime.
Of these, seven suspects have been ordered by the Criminal Court to remain in detention until trial completion. The other two, Hussein Samih and Ahmed Shaheem, were remanded for 16 days starting November 1, 2025.
A Complex Inside Job
Investigators uncovered that the perpetrators created two identical containers, swapped them with the original seized ones at MPL, and used a disguised vessel—with its name and registration number altered—to move the contraband.
The stolen containers were then transported to Thilafushi, where the containers were destroyed. Police said they have since recovered remnants of the destroyed containers at the site.
Widening Investigation
Authorities have so far imposed travel bans on 19 people, searched five vessels, and inspected 21 locations across Malé, Hulhumalé, and Thilafushi. The police statement described the case as a large-scale, well-planned smuggling operation involving multiple layers of coordination.
Public Appeal
The Police have urged anyone with information about the stolen cigarettes or those engaged in illegal cigarette trade without import permits to contact the Major Crime Investigation Department at 9911099.
Growing Concern
The heist—estimated at over MVR 100 million in lost state revenue—has raised serious concerns about security vulnerabilities and internal collusion within key state agencies, including Customs and MPL.
“This case demonstrates a coordinated effort to manipulate systems meant to safeguard state property,” a senior police official said.
As investigations continue, the public awaits further arrests and the identification of higher-level collaborators in one of the largest thefts from state custody in recent Maldivian history.
