Commissioner of Police Mohamed Hameed, on Saturday, revealed that 80 kilograms of drugs were seized in an operation conducted in the southernmost atoll of Addu.
According to the commissioner, the operation was a joint effort by the Drug Enforcement Department, Drugs Intelligence Unit, Divisional Intelligence Department, Marine Police and the South Police Division.
"The operation was carried out solely on locally developed intelligence and policing work", stated Commissioner Hameed, adding that the Maldivian police would cooperate with international partners as the investigation progressed.
The police commissioner's assertion was made amidst reports that the operation was initiated on the basis of intelligence from Pakistan.
Although the police have yet to reveal additional information regarding the operation, it was disclosed that Ibrahim Rasheed, widely suspected of heading an extensive drug network in Addu, was arrested along with several other individuals.
As per previously confirmed information, Rasheed was arrested eight times on drug charges. Additionally, the police also apprehended Rasheed on charges of gang rape, two instances of perpetrating gang violence, attempted rape and two instances of obstructing law enforcement.
Former football player Shamweel Gasim (Bondaa) was among those arrested. Despite retiring from professional football, he continued to encourage young footballers to pursue careers in the field. Shamweel recently announced his intention to contest in the next local council elections.
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