Rap artist Pest's remand extended for 10 days

The Criminal Court of the Maldives has extended the remand period of well-known rap artist Ismail Ifhaam Mohamed by ten days.

Ifhaam referred to as Pest locally was arrested in a drug bust last month. 

The detention of others arrested along with Pest has also been extended. Others arrested include Ahmed Husham, Mohamed Suvaid, whose remands were extended for ten days, as well as Ahmed Shammoon and Abdulla Saajiu whose remands were extended for five days. 

Police arrested them with 2.5 kg of drugs on February 13. The operation that saw the arrest, was carried out by Police Intelligence and Drug Enforcement Department. The operation was based on intelligence received regarding a network of wide distribution and drug businesses in the Maldives, according to Police. 

The drugs were found after extensive searches from four residences in Male' City, a motorcycle and a boat docked at the North Harbor. 

Although it was not confirmed initially by police, identities of those arrested were revealed yesterday officially confirming that Pest was among those arrested. Both Husham and Suvaid are artists of the Symbolic Records, which Pest is also a part of. Husham is known by his stage name as "Jahulu". 

Symbolic Records and Pest are some of the most famous artists in the Maldivian music industry. Pest is often referred to as "Rap King of Maldives" by his fans. 

Police are still investigating the case.