Govt targets drug trafficking networks with interagency approach: Minister

Minister of Homeland Security Ali Ihsan said on Monday that the government has initiated a coordinated effort to address drug trafficking by uniting relevant agencies and prioritising action against individuals identified as key players in drug smuggling.

Speaking during the fifth episode of the 'Ahaa Forum', Ihsan responded to a public query regarding the government’s approach to the drug issue. He outlined measures implemented over the past 18 months, during which more than 700 kilograms of drugs were seized—estimated to have a street value of USD 1.4 billion. In addition, over 9,000 bottles of alcohol were confiscated from locations across the country.

The minister said efforts are underway to prevent drugs from entering the Maldives through its borders. These include increased inspection of postal and air freight packages. Plans are in progress to introduce container scanners for incoming sea cargo, which Ihsan stated would further support detection efforts at the maritime border.

Ihsan emphasised that the current approach is focused on limiting the supply of drugs.

“We are prioritising arrests of those involved in trafficking over smaller-scale enforcement efforts,” he said.

He noted that operations now aim to trace the financial networks behind drug smuggling, treating these as money laundering cases.

“Drug networks often operate through multiple layers, making it difficult to reach the primary figures. Most law enforcement operations have historically targeted intermediaries or lower-level distributors,” he said. “Now we are tracing financial transactions to reach those believed to be leading these operations.”

He confirmed that legal action is underway against individuals identified through this method, and that assets and businesses linked to drug trafficking will be confiscated. A pilot operation was recently conducted in Fuvahmulah, leading to the arrest of two individuals alleged to be key figures in local drug networks. Their cases are currently before the courts.

According to the minister, similar operations will be expanded across the country. He stated that those operating drug networks under various business names will no longer be able to continue such activity.

Ihsan added that long-term outcomes will also depend on improving access to treatment facilities for drug users.