Drug kingpins arrested in Addu; MVR 19 million circulated through four accounts

Police have arrested the leaders of what is described as the largest drug trafficking network in Addu City.

Homeland Minister Ali Ihusan announced on X today that the arrests were made last night under the ongoing nationwide anti-drug operation Alimagu.

He said police launched an investigation into the network's leaders in March last year on suspicion of large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering.

According to the minister, police findings indicate the network has been operating since 2017. Over the past five years, more than MVR 19 million was transferred through the accounts of four senior members of the group. Police have not yet disclosed the identities of those arrested.

Ihusan said the operation is being carried out under the directives of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and is specifically targeting drug trafficking ring leaders.

“I repeatedly warn and advise those involved in drug trafficking to stop this. Once the police investigation reaches a person, there will be no mercy, sympathy or exceptions for anyone. There will only be strict legal action,” he said.

More than 100 suspects have been arrested so far in Operation Alimagu, with several already remanded in custody.

Parliament yesterday passed an amendment to the Drugs Act introducing major changes to sentencing. Under the amendment, the death penalty for drug smuggling or trafficking can only be imposed if all Supreme Court justices issue a unanimous verdict. If unanimity is not reached, a life sentence, currently defined as 25 years will be imposed.

The bill also seeks to remove the 25 year cap on life sentences issued under the Drugs Act, redefining life imprisonment as incarceration until death with no eligibility for parole or pardons.