Drugs allegedly smuggled into the Maldives by an Indian national have been seized at Velana International Airport.

Maldives Customs said the items were seized on 5 August after they were found in the man's luggage on suspicion of containing drugs.

The seized substance was identified as cannabis and weighed 450 grammes, according to Customs.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over the involvement of Indian nationals in drug smuggling cases in the Maldives.

In April, India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) issued a special advisory warning travelers about the risk of unknowingly becoming involved in drug smuggling.

The NCB advised those traveling not to accept or handle packages or other items given to them by strangers while travelling through airports, seaports or transit points.

It also urged travelers to keep their luggage and personal belongings secure and under their supervision at all times.