The Maldives Police Service has raided a suspected illegal cigarette manufacturing facility in Henveiru, Malé City.

The operation was carried out following a court order after authorities received a tip-off regarding the production of cigarettes at a private office in the area.

While police have not yet released official details, local media reporters observed officers loading items onto a police vehicle during the raid. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have yet to confirm whether any arrests have been made.

Under the Tobacco Control Act, the manufacture of any type of tobacco product is strictly prohibited in the Maldives. The law also bans tobacco advertising and requires all legally sold cigarettes to carry a special permit and label.

An amendment to the Tobacco Control Act in November last year not only banned the production of cigarettes, cigars, and vaping products but also prohibited the import of any materials used in their manufacturing.