Maldives Police Service has refused to comment on reports that a number of items believed to be narcotic substances have washed up on the shore of some islands in the north.

Police's media officer told RaajjeMV that they are investigating the matter, and that details of the case will be shared with the media 'later'.

There have been reports that the suspected narcotic items have washed up on the shores in Uligamu, Ihavandhoo and Mulhadhoo islands- all in Haa Alifu atoll- so far.

The items are believed to have come from an Iranian vessel, that ran aground near Innafinolhu island in the same atoll last Thursday. When the coastguard arrived at the scene to assist the vessel, the eight crew members onboard had attempted to flee after setting it ablaze. However, they were caught and handed over to the police.