Major drug operation saw seizure of 29 kilograms of drugs

The police's major drug operation that was conducted this month has seen 29.6 kilograms worth of drugs be seized, said the police.

At the ongoing press conference being held at Iskandar Koshi Multipurpose Hall in order to disseminate information regarding the operation, Chief Inspector of Police Ahmed Naif announced that the operation started on 1st November and has seen raids across 105 locations, with 29.6 kilograms of drugs being seized.

Naif stated that out of the 119 people who were apprehended, 61 of them had tested positive for drugs. He also said that 38 people attended court for remand extension.

Naif said that they were summoned to court after looking at their criminal records and the amount of drugs that were seized. He also stated that they worked to bring them to court if they were to find drugs on their persons. 

"These are people who had the opportunity for testimonies to be influenced and those who were in custody for societal safety," stated Naif as a reason for some people being released from custody after a sizable number of them had been detained.

Police have arrested a group of individuals from Gaafu Dhaalu and Gaafu Alifu atolls on suspicion of involvement in drug trafficking. According to Naif, 16 people were taken into custody after authorities received intelligence that they were transporting drugs into the country by sea.

He went on to say that a total 12 kilograms worth of drugs were seized from said individuals. 

Naif said that the operation is currently ongoing.

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan commented on the operation, stating that the operation is a strong step towards halting drug trade. He also said that the operation will come to an end once those who are involved in the drug trade cease their operations.