Committee to provide measures to tackle drug smuggling issues: Nazim

Deputy Speaker Ahmed Nazim has stated that the Parliament's Committee on National Security Services (241 Committee) will propose solutions to issues such as drug smuggling once it concludes its current investigations.

Speaking during the debate on the Drugs Act Amendment Bill, Nazim highlighted serious concerns regarding Customs’ negligence in preventing drug smuggling.

“We have observed significant negligence by Customs. Hopefully, once the 241 Committee completes its ongoing cases, it will recommend stringent and enforceable solutions to the government. We cannot rely indefinitely on uniformed bodies,” Nazim said.

He further mentioned rumors implicating individuals at Velana International Airport's baggage handling in aiding drug smuggling.

“Suitcases with special markings from international flights are reportedly redirected to the domestic terminal belt, bypassing X-ray screening, and entering the country. The operation has now formed a complete ring,” he said.

Nazim also pointed to efforts by smugglers to exploit the airport's waste disposal system.

“There are claims that smugglers aim to control airport garbage disposal. They intend to retrieve marked suitcases from the beach, completing their operation,” he said.

Airport waste was previously handled by the state-owned WAMCO until October last year. When WAMCO ceased operations due to unsustainable revenue, the Maldives Airports Company Limited (MACL) contracted the service to a private company. However, WAMCO has since agreed to resume waste disposal in coordination with the Ministry of Finance after concerns about high costs associated with the private contractor. A recent MACL announcement for new waste disposal contractors was also canceled.

Nazim emphasized the need for sincere efforts to address the drug issues, attributing the worsening situation to the negligence of state institutions.

He urged authorities to ensure that drugs do not breach Maldivian borders and to prevent people within institutions from profiting illicitly through such activities.