Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusaan has stated that drug networks in Fuvahmulah City have been largely dismantled as part of the Government’s nationwide anti-drug operations in 2024.

Speaking at the ‘Riyasee Bayaan 2025' forum on Thursday, the Minister stated that a task force comprising police and customs has been leading intelligence-based drug operations, targeting narcotics trade across the country.

Citing examples, the Minister highlighted that drug cafes operating in Fuvahmulah City have been shut down, and those involved in the trade have been arrested and are facing severe legal consequences, including money laundering changes.

Recently, as part of the ongoing crackdown, two suspected drug traffickers were arrested in Fuvahmulah City under a court order on money laundering charges. The suspects, Ahmed Niushad, 34, and Hassan Azim, 29, were found to have conducted large-scale financial transactions without any legitimate sources of income.

Police investigations reveal that Azim’s bank account recorded transactions totalling MVR 5 million, while Niushad’s account handled MVR 21 million over five years.

According to the Minister, individuals managing the drug trade in the Maldives often operate under the guise of legitimate businesses, without engaging in direct drug sales. He confirmed that the Government’s crackdown will continue in 2025, with authorities intensifying efforts to disrupt drug trafficking routes and prosecute those involved.

Highlighting the success of these operations, Minister Ihusaan reported that MVR 600 million worth of drugs were seized in 2023, while in 2024, the amount doubled to MVR 1.2 billion. Additionally the Minister stated the routes used to smuggle drugs across the borders have now been closed, significantly weakening the narcotics supply chain.