Two individuals have been arrested for being in possession of drugs, in Hanimaadhoo island of Haa Dhaal atoll.

The arrests were made during an operation conducted on the island, as part of efforts by the Maldives Police Service (MPS) to curb drug trafficking and smuggling in the Maldives, and to crack down on such networks.

The operation stemmed from an intel report revealing drug trafficking efforts on the island.

Arrested in the drug operation were a 28-year-old and a 36-year-old.

Conducted on October 10, the operation saw officers raid the residence of the suspects under a court order.

Officers confiscated 67 pieces of paper filled with suspected narcotics, during the raid.

Upon being presented to the Hanimaadhoo Magistrate Court for their remand hearing, the 28-year-old was remanded for a 15-day period and the 36-year-old was remanded for 10 days in judicial custody, at a location decided by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The Hanimaadhoo Police Station is currently running further investigations into the case.