The Criminal Court concluded 137 drug-related cases in 2024, with 95 per cent resulting in convictions.

According to statistics released by the court, only seven cases were dismissed after being examined on their merits.

Among the cases adjudicated, some involved defendants admitting to drug use during trial, while others were withdrawn by the Prosecutor General to be redirected to the Drug Court for rehabilitation and treatment. Additionally, certain cases were withdrawn by the prosecution.

The court reported that 20 individuals were convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to life imprisonment last year, while seven others received prison terms of more than 12 years for drug offences.

Additionally, in connection with drug convictions, individuals were ordered to pay a total of MVR 10.2 million in fines in 2024.