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Inspection of Iranian vessel ongoing: Police

Ahmed Aiham
13 May 2019, MVT 12:02
The Iranian vessel intercepted for drug trafficking in Maldivian waters ran aground on a reef near suburb Villimale', Kaafu Atoll. PHOTO: POLICE
Ahmed Aiham
13 May 2019, MVT 12:02

Maldives Police Service on Monday revealed that the authority is yet to complete the investigation into the recently intercepted Iranian vessel.

Apart from noting the ongoing inspection, Police have yet to release further details.

Last Tuesday, Police announced that 50 kg of drugs were found aboard the vessel.

The vessel was intercepted in a joint operation conducted by Police and the Coast Guard. The boat ran aground a reef near the suburb of Villimale' en route to capital Male City. Thus the police commenced inspections at the site.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Mohamed Riyaz stated that inspections uncovered 50 kg of drugs so far, and the amount is expected to increase as the investigation continues.

The drugs were hidden behind a false fibre layer inside the vessel's compartments, according to Riyaz.

The seven crew members aboard the vessel were arrested and the Criminal Court extended their remands by 15 days on May 7.

The Iranian vessel was intercepted 126 nautical miles west of Baa Atoll and is reported to be extensively involved in drug trafficking across the region.

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