Two individuals have been arrested in Male’ City on suspicion of drug and alcohol possession, smuggling and distribution.

The Maldives Police Service said the arrests were made during a coordinated operation by the Drug Enforcement Department and Counter-Narcotics Intelligence Unit on the night of 6 August. The suspects were stopped and searched while riding a motorcycle, following a tip-off from intelligence officers.

Police recovered approximately 17 grams of suspected drugs concealed in a container, along with 18 500ml bottles and a 5-litre container holding substances believed to be alcohol.

The suspects were brought before a local court and remanded in police custody for seven days as investigations continue.