Three arrested from Lhaviyani Atoll with drugs

Three people have been arrested from two islands in Lhaviyani Atoll while in possession of a large number of drugs.

According to the Police, the arrests were made during counternarcotics operations carried out in these two islands.

In this regard, Hussain Munaz, 40, M. Nalahiyaa Manzil, Male’, was arrested during an operation carried out in Hinnavaru last Friday.

Police searched his residence following his arrest during which they discovered substances suspected to drugs and money. The preliminary weight of the drugs was placed at 66.02 grams.

Ali Mohamed Fulhu, 54, Nagilijehige, Lh, Naifaru and Ahmed Viam, 26, Daisy Hiyaa, Lh. Naifaru were arrested during operations carried out in Naifaru.

Police searched two places linked to Ahmed Mohamed Fulhu following his arrest during which five cans of alcohol were discovered. Meanwhile, Police discovered substances suspected to be drugs during a search of Ahmed Viam’s residence following his arrest. The preliminary weight of the drugs was placed at 12 grams.

Hussain Munaz has been remanded in custody for 15 days. Ali Mohamed Fulhu was initially remanded in custody for two days. His remand was later extended by an additional five days.

Ahmed Viam has been remanded in custody for 12 days.

Police carried out these operations acting on suspicions these individuals were using drugs and involved in its sale. The operations were a joint effort between the Drug Enforcement Department, Counter Narcotics Intelligence and Lhaviyani Atoll Police.

The case is under further investigation by the authority.

The issue of drugs remains one of the most pertinent social issues in the Maldives as the government works to resolve the issue as a top priority.