Criminal Court has extended the detention of two women arrested in connection with the importation of more than 1.5 kilogrammes of narcotics into the Maldives.

The suspects, 29-year-old Aminath Roona and 25-year-old Alya Sharsa Naseer, were arrested during a special police operation conducted at Velana International Airport and Hulhumalé on 17 April.

The court has now ordered both women to remain in custody for a further 30 days as investigations continue.

This is the third time Roona has been brought before the court for a remand hearing. She was initially remanded for 15 days before receiving a further 25-day extension on 3 May.

Police told the court that findings from the investigation indicate Roona played the leading role in the alleged operation. Investigators believe that 1.5 kilogrammes of narcotics were discovered in the luggage of a traveller arriving in the Maldives under her direction.

Authorities also stated that evidence recovered from Roona’s residence has been linked to items seized during a controlled delivery operation conducted by police.

In relation to Alya, the court noted that travel records show she frequently travelled abroad. Police also informed the court that evidence connected to the case had been recovered from her mobile phone.

The court further instructed police to ensure Alya receives any medical assistance required, as she is reportedly undergoing treatment for a mental health condition.

Both women are being investigated on serious allegations of importing and trafficking narcotics.

Police initially estimated the weight of the seized drugs at 1.820 kilogrammes. Subsequent examinations later confirmed the quantity at 1.5 kilogrammes.

Under Maldivian law, the importation of narcotic drugs is among the most serious criminal offences. Convictions can carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment and fines ranging from MVR 100,000 to MVR 10 million. In the most serious cases prescribed by law, the offence may also attract the death penalty.