Magistrate court in Fuvahmulah City has ordered the closure of a property suspected of being used for drug-related activities in the first such court-ordered closure outside Malé.

The order targets a section of a residence known as Gulistan in Funaadu ward. Authorities suspect the premises was being used to store and distribute drugs, while also providing a space for drug consumption in a café-style setting.

The closure order came into effect on 27 May 2026 and will remain in force for 85 days.

Police warned that entering the premises without authorisation during the closure period is a criminal offence. They added that strict legal action will be taken against anyone who unlawfully enters the property or causes damage to it while the court order remains in effect.

The Maldives Police Service thanked residents for the cooperation and assistance provided in efforts to curb drug trafficking and drug use in Fuvahmulah City.

Police also stressed that anti-drug operations will continue under powers granted by the country's narcotics laws. Efforts are ongoing to identify other locations involved in drug trafficking and the facilitation of drug use, with further closures expected where legal requirements are met.