Over 100 arrested in Maldives’ largest anti-drug operation
Police said that 90 per cent of the targeted locations had been searched by Thursday afternoon.
More than 100 people were arrested on Thursday during the Maldives’ nationwide anti-drug operation, Operation Alimagu, police have confirmed.
The operation, launched in the morning on the orders of President Mohamed Muizzu, is based on intelligence gathered over the past six months. Police said that 90 per cent of the targeted locations had been searched by Thursday afternoon.
Chief Inspector of Police Ahmed Naif, head of Drugs and Substance Abuse Control, told state broadcaster PSM that suspected cannabis, methamphetamine and heroin were recovered.
He said additional items were also seized, including:
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Various synthetic drugs
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Cash
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Drug packaging equipment
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Equipment used for drug smuggling
Naif said 104 locations had been scheduled for search operations. Some premises belonging to the same individuals were being held for later searches due to operational requirements.
Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihsan said the operation is aimed at dismantling drug trafficking networks operating across the country.
The police said Operation Alimagu is the largest coordinated anti-drug operation ever conducted in the Maldives. It involves simultaneous raids at more than 100 locations and forms part of sustained efforts to identify drug networks and bring those involved to justice.
