Operation Alimagu exposes massive drug network as MVR 62.9m flows through suspects’ accounts
MPS has stated that the four suspects are believed to be central figures in a major drug trafficking and money laundering network. A specialized investigation focusing on the leadership of this network was initiated in March 2025.
Suspects arrested in Villingili island of Gaaf Alif atoll, in connection with Operation Alimagu | RaajjeMV
The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has disclosed that MVR 62.9 million was transacted through the bank accounts of three individuals arrested during Operation Alimagu, which was carried out in Malé City and Gaaf Alif atoll.
According to the police institution, Operation Alimagu was launched with the objective of dismantling networks involved in the importation of narcotics into the Maldives, their distribution, and the laundering of proceeds generated through these illicit activities.
As part of the operation, 10 locations across Gaaf Alif atoll and the Greater Malé Region (GMR) were searched on 11 January 2025, resulting in the arrest of four individuals.
The operation targeted individuals suspected of engaging in large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering activities in Gaaf Alif atoll, as well as those involved in the possession and sale of narcotics.
The individuals arrested during the operation include:
- Shaffah Latheef, 28, Shevona, GA. Villingili
- Ahmed Madih, 33, Miyuzikeege, GA. Villingili
- Ahmed Anaam Ibrahim, 30, Aizan, GA. Villingili
- Noorunnizam, 35, Araairuge, GA. Villingili
When presented before the court for remand hearings, the court ordered that Shaffah, Madih, and Anaam be remanded in custody until the conclusion of their trials. Noorunnizam was remanded for a period of 15 days.
MPS has stated that the four suspects are believed to be central figures in a major drug trafficking and money laundering network. A specialized investigation focusing on the leadership of this network was initiated in March 2025.
Investigators have determined that the network has been involved in drug trafficking activities since 2015.
MPS further noted that over the past five years, more than MVR 300 million and over USD 400,000 have passed through the bank accounts of members of the network.
Authorities have identified 19 individuals operating under the network’s leader, who facilitated drug sales and money laundering in various roles. All of these individuals are currently under investigation.
Police also released a financial breakdown of the suspects currently in custody. Records show that MVR 17,174,461.12 was transacted through the accounts of Madih, while his recorded salary deposits during the same period totaled only MVR 430,638.99. Anaam’s accounts recorded transactions amounting to MVR 38,812,690.60, despite his total salary deposits being just MVR 271,874.32. In the case of Shaffah, MVR 6,916,752.83 was transacted through his accounts, while his total salary deposits amounted to only MVR 371,635.36.
As the investigation continues, police have obtained court orders to freeze 53 bank accounts belonging to 13 different individuals.
