Hashish oil concealed in chocolate syrup bottles imported under Raas Maldives

Customs has seized more than 40 kilograms of hashish oil concealed in chocolate syrup bottles that were smuggled into Maldives by sea under the name of a company called Raas Maldives.

The items were seized on Thursday night after customs officials scanned and tested a shipment of chocolate syrup bottles, which later tested positive for hashish oil. The bottles were packed in 10 boxes.

Customs said the street value of the drugs exceeds MVR 30 million.

Police initially confirmed only that a man had been arrested in connection with the case, saying further details would be released later. However, according to a Criminal Court order, the arrested individual is Mohamed Aadil, 57, from Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo.

The court order states that Aadil was arrested on suspicion of smuggling drugs into Maldives in a shipment imported under the name of Raas Maldives aboard the vessel MSS Doora, and attempting to distribute the drugs after clearance.

The order also notes that Raas Maldives had emailed Customs’ Sea Cargo Examination Unit informing them that a person named Ahmed Ali would represent the company to clear the shipment.

According to the court, Aadil was arrested due to his alleged involvement in the case and concerns that his release could pose a risk to public safety, allow him to destroy evidence, or influence witnesses.

The court order further states that Raas Maldives is registered under Aadil’s name, and that he serves as the company’s managing director. The company was registered 16 years ago.