In a significant development in the ongoing narcotics crackdown, the Criminal Court has extended the detention of a 23-year-old woman arrested in Hulhumalé Phase 1 after authorities discovered a substantial quantity of drugs in her possession.
The suspect, identified as Mariyam Zeena from Aahiyaa, H.A. Thuraakunu, was initially apprehended on February 21, 2025, during a police operation targeting drug trafficking in the region. Police, acting under a court-issued warrant, conducted a thorough search of an apartment in Hulhumalé Phase 1, leading to the seizure of approximately 12.28 kilograms of methamphetamine and 1.58 kilograms of heroin.
Following her arrest, Zeena was presented before the Criminal Court, which initially ordered a 15-day remand. As this period concluded, she appeared in court again on March 8, 2025, where her detention was extended for an additional 15 days to facilitate the ongoing investigation.
The Maldives Police Service continues to probe the case, aiming to dismantle the networks involved in the distribution of these narcotics. This incident underscores the persistent challenges faced by Maldivian authorities in combating drug trafficking within the archipelago.
Recent statistics highlight a troubling trend: in 2024, the Maldives witnessed a significant increase in drug-related offenses, with authorities seizing substantial quantities of illicit substances. The government has since intensified efforts to address this issue, implementing stricter enforcement measures and enhancing inter-agency collaborations.
The community remains vigilant, with citizens encouraged to report any suspicious activities to local authorities. The government reiterates its commitment to eradicating drug-related crimes and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.
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