Over 8kg of narcotics seized in smuggling attempt
Maldives Customs Service has seized 8.49 kilograms of hashish oil, with an estimated street value exceeding MVR 6 million, at Velana International Airport. This latest interception follows a series of significant drug busts in recent months, including the seizure of over 21 kilograms of narcotics in May, all of which have been handed over to the police for further investigation.
Velana International Airport Terminal. | Travel Trade Maldives
Maldives Customs Service has seized 8 kilograms of narcotics attempted to be smuggled into the country.
Maldives Customs Service has announced the seizure of over 8 kilograms of narcotics attempted to be smuggled into the country via air freight on June 9, 2024.
Maldives Customs Service stated that the seized substances weighed 8.49 kilograms and were identified as hashish oil. Customs further estimated that the street value of the confiscated drugs exceeds 6 million Maldivian Rufiyaa.
Customs stated that these items were seized at Velana International Airport.
Customs authorities continue to intercept significant quantities of narcotics being smuggled into the Maldives via air travel on a regular basis.
In May alone, authorities seized over 21 kilograms of narcotics and handed three suspects over to the police. This follows significant operations in April, where Customs intercepted separate shipments of illicit drugs valued at MVR 1.7 million and MVR 3.3 million. Both Maldivian nationals and foreigners have been taken into custody in connection with these cases.
