A Maldivian man has been arrested in Thinadhoo island of Gaaf Dhaal atoll, for being in possession of drugs.

The arrest was made as part of efforts by the Maldives Police Service (MPS), to curb drug smuggling and trafficking attempts and crack down on such networks, across the Maldives.

During the operation conducted jointly by the Thinadhoo Police Station and Police Intelligence Unit, officers stopped the 24-year-old on the road and searched him.

Officers confiscated five pieces of cellophane stuffed with suspected narcotics.

The operation stemmed from an intel report, that drugs were being peddled.

Upon being presented to the Thinadhoo Magistrate Court for his remand hearing, the man was given seven days in remand.

The case is being investigated by the Thinadhoo Police Station currently.