The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has remanded five alleged leaders of a long-running drug trafficking network in Addu City, following a major crackdown under Operation Alimagu, the nationwide initiative targeting organised drug crime.

The arrests were made on 3 December, during a coordinated intelligence-led operation. The individuals taken into custody are:

Police confirmed all five suspects are residents of Addu City.

According to the authorities, these individuals have been under investigation since March for alleged involvement in drug trafficking and money laundering activities. The network has been operating since 2017, and over MVR 19 million circulated through the accounts of four senior members over five years, an amount authorities say indicates organised criminal activity.

Following their arrest, the Addu City Magistrate Court ordered:

Police say the investigation remains ongoing.