In a joint operation conducted by GA. Atoll Police under Upper South Police, Counter Narcotics Intelligence, and Drug Enforcement, 17.7 kg of drugs were recovered from two houses in GA. Maamendhoo, and two people were arrested on suspicion of involvement in the case.
Police stated that the two individuals arrested during the operation conducted on the second of this month "under suspicion of importing and trafficking large quantities of drugs" are suspected to be key figures in a drug importation network. The two individuals are:
- Azhadh Naseem, 29, Fiyaathoshivilla, GA. Maamendhoo
- Rishfan Ramiz, 29, Roashaneege, GA. Maamendhoo
When brought before the court to decide on their remand, a period of five days was granted, and police stated that as the case is being investigated further, work to search additional locations is currently ongoing.
Of these two individuals, Azhadh was previously arrested on February 21 with over three kilograms of drugs. On that occasion, he was arrested along with a 36-year-old Bangladeshi national named Hanif during a joint operation by Drug Enforcement and Counter Narkotics Intelligence, following information received by Police Intelligence that he was in possession of and dealing drugs. The drugs were found on a dhoni.
It remains unclear why Azhadh was free.
According to the police, the drugs discovered so far were found after searching two houses linked to the two suspects under a court warrant.
In a drug operation conducted yesterday in Malé as well, three youths were arrested on suspicion of possessing over a kilogram of drugs and drug-infused vape cartridges.
Police stated that during a search of a house in Maafannu as part of that operation, 1.7 kg of suspected drugs, 230 vape cartridges, 26 bottles of vape flavorings, and a bottle of alcohol were found.
