Maldives Police Service (MPS) has made a number of arrests in separate drug operations.

As such, seven individuals were arrested in Maldives capital Malé City for being in possession of alcohol as well as one from Meedhoo island in Raa atoll under the accusation of smuggling narcotics.

In an operation conducted on Saturday following a tip off to the Drug Intelligence Unit, officers of the Drug Enforcement Department and Drug Intelligence raided a residence in the Maafannu-ward of the capital city, under a court order.

Officers confiscated 240 cans of beer as well as narcotic substances stuffed in two joints.

Arrested in connection to the case were a 19-year-old, a 21-year-old, a 22-year-old, 25-year-old, 26-year-old, 27-year-old and a 28-year-old.

The case is under further investigations.

In a separate operation conducted by Drug Enforcement officers and those stationed in Meedhoo island of Raa atoll the same day following a tip off that drugs were being smuggled into the island via an individual travelling on a speedboat en route from Maduvvari island, officers arrested a 26-year-old Maldivian man.

Upon searching the man after arresting him, officers confiscated 16 pieces of cellophane stuffed with suspected narcotics.

Meedhoo Police Station revealed that they are investigating the case.

These operations are part of the efforts by the police institution to curb drug trafficking and smuggling nationwide.