Naveen says there is no place for criminal offenders in the police service after officer arrested in drug case

Commissioner of Police Ismail Naveen has assured that there will be no place in the police service for officers who engage in criminal activity.

He made the remarks following the arrest of a young police officer accused of attempting to smuggle drugs into Vandhoo in Thaa Atoll.

The arrested officer has been identified as 25‑year‑old Mohamed Nawaz of Hirilandhoo, who was taken into custody during an operation conducted on Sunday. Police said a search of Nawaz and his belongings uncovered five rubber packets containing suspected drugs.

The Commissioner said on Sunday that the strictest legal action will be taken against any police employee who commits criminal offences.

“There is no place for employees who commit such crimes in the police service,” Naveen said, assuring that such individuals will not be allowed to remain in the institution.

Police said Nawaz was remanded for 10 days after being presented before the court. His urine also tested positive for drugs. He has been suspended from duty pending the investigation. Nawaz completed the 33rd Basic Training Course in 2021 and became a qualified police officer in 2022.

This is the latest in a series of incidents involving police officers. Earlier this month, an officer was arrested for entering a salon in Male', causing disturbances, damaging property, fighting with an employee, and obstructing police. There is also an ongoing case involving a police officer accused of threatening a child.

In another recent incident, a police officer was arrested on charges of attempting to smuggle drugs into the Hithadhoo custody in Addu.