One suspect released in case involving use of minors for drug trafficking
Authorities in Gaafu Alif Villingili have apprehended two key figures of a drug trafficking network accused of exploiting minors, with one suspect remanded in custody until the conclusion of the trial. While the first suspect remains detained, the court has released the second individual under specific conditions following a special police operation that led to the seizure of over 66 grams of narcotics. Police are continuing their investigation into the case under drug enforcement and child protection laws to dismantle the criminal network further.
Shaheed Hussain Adam Building houses the Maldives Police Service. | Edition.mv
One of the two individuals arrested in GA. Vilingili for allegedly using minors to traffic drugs has been released from custody.
Two Maldivian men have been taken into custody in connection with this case. Police stated that the arrests were made during a joint operation conducted by Gaafu Alif Vilingili Police and Counter-Narcotics Intelligence, specifically targeting individuals using minors to sell drugs. During the operation, which took place on the morning of May 28, 2026, four houses were searched. Authorities seized a total of 66.92 grams of suspected narcotics (tentative weight).
The key figures arrested in connection with this case have been identified as Mohamed Athoof Habeeb, 25, of Athens, GA. Villingili, and Mohamed Raif Hussain, 20, of Dhethadimage, GA. Villingili. Upon being produced in court for a remand hearing, the court ordered Athoof to be remanded in custody for 15 days, while Raif was remanded for 10 days.
Following the expiration of a 15-day remand period, the Criminal Court has ordered that Athoof, a suspect in the case, remain in custody until the conclusion of his trial. However, in the case of Raif, another suspect involved in the matter, the Criminal Court declined to extend his detention upon the expiry of his initial remand. He was subsequently released under specific conditions during his second court appearance.
This operation was conducted under the recent amendments to the Narcotic Drugs Act. It aimed to provide protection and rehabilitation pathways for individuals exploited in drug trafficking, while also fulfilling the mandate under Section 122 of the Child Rights Protection Act to safeguard children from exploitation and criminal abuse.
Police are conducting a further investigation into the matter.
