Authorities Seize MVR 72 Million Worth of Narcotics, Two Million Cigarettes, and 7,000 Vapes Within Six Weeks
Minister Ihusan announced that joint operations between the Police and Customs over the past month and a half have resulted in the seizure of 83,450 grams of narcotics, with an estimated street value of approximately MVR 72.2 million. Additionally, Customs intercepted 7,000 vape sticks and nearly two million cigarettes during the same period.
Police destroying 103 kilograms of narcotics held in their custody. (File Photo) | MPS | Maldives Police Service
Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan has announced that joint operations between the Police and Customs over the past month and a half have resulted in the seizure of drugs valued at MVR 72 million, along with two million cigarettes and 7,000 vape units.
Speaking at a press conference held at the President's Office on Thursday, Minister Ihusan announced that joint operations conducted by the Police and Customs over the past month and a half have resulted in the seizure of 83,450 grams of narcotics.
Minister Ihusan stated that the seized narcotics have an estimated street value of approximately MVR 72.2 million. The Minister detailed that 72 kilograms of these drugs were intercepted by Customs while attempting to smuggle them across the border. These seizures were made across eight separate cases, with the value of those specific drugs alone estimated at MVR 59 million.
These narcotics carry an estimated street value of approximately 72.2 million Maldivian Rufiyaa. This seizure is the result of the extensive and diligent efforts of numerous officers from both the Police and Customs services. Specifically, this success highlights the rigorous work carried out by Customs through the application of advanced border control techniques and the effective integration of various intelligence sources.Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan
Minister Ihusan highlighted the extensive efforts undertaken by Maldives Customs Service to intercept prohibited items and goods being smuggled into the country. He noted that within the first month and a half of this year, Customs has successfully seized 7,000 vape sticks and approximately two million cigarettes.
Minister Ihusan stated that numerous successful operations have been conducted to combat drug trafficking and to intercept the entry of prohibited items into the Maldives.
The import of vapes and related components into the Maldives has been prohibited effective November 15, 2024. Furthermore, the sale, distribution, and use of vaping products within the country will be banned starting December 15, 2024.
