Three locals have been arrested for being in possession of a hefty amount of drugs and cash.

The Maldives Police Service (MPS) revealed that an operation was conducted after their Counter Narcotics Intelligence department was tipped off regarding drug peddling allegations in the capital city.

Three residences in Malé City were raided under a court order and three individuals were taken into police custody.

The operation was conducted jointly by the Drug Enforcement Department (DED) and Counter Narcotics Intelligence on October 19.

Arrested in connection with the raids were Mohamed Aishar Yoosuf, 22 and native to Kalaidhoo island of Laamu atoll, Mohamed Maihaan Fayaz, 19 and native to Kaashidhoo island of Kaafu atoll and Ibrahim Majid, 31 and native to Kudahuvadhoo island of Dhaalu atoll.

As part of the raids, officers confiscated substances believed to be drugs and over MVR 86,000 in cash.

The provisional weight of the confiscated drugs was 1,142.04 grams.

Upon being presented to the Criminal Court for their remand hearing, Aishar was remanded for a 15-day period and the remaining two were remanded for seven days.

Further investigations are currently underway in connection with the case.