NDA employee remanded over alleged drug use

A staff member of the National Drug Agency (NDA) has been remanded in custody for five days on suspicion of drug use and possession.  

According to a Criminal Court order, the suspect is a 42‑year‑old man from G.Dh. Gaddhoo. He was arrested after police recovered a cellophane packet containing suspected narcotics that he had dropped. Investigators said his urine tested positive for THC (the main psychoactive compound in cannabis).  

During the hearing, the man requested time to seek legal counsel. He also informed the court that he is employed by the NDA and is the father of several young children. The court noted that there was sufficient evidence to support the allegations and ordered his remand.  

This case follows another recent arrest in which a man was remanded for 15 days on charges of supplying drugs to NDA patients. Police alleged he had administered narcotics and engaged in sexual activity with clients undergoing treatment.  

Authorities have acknowledged that drug use within treatment centers remains a recurring issue. The NDA has previously stated that it conducts regular operations to ensure its facilities remain free of prohibited substances.  

Drug abuse continues to be one of the Maldives’ most pressing social problems. Earlier this month, the government launched a nationwide anti‑drug operation on November 13, leading to multiple arrests.