Maldives Customs uncovered illegal tobacco issuance from two bonded warehouses, leading to their registration being cancelled and financial recovery efforts initiated. Exotic Enterprises and SGM Bonded Warehouses were found to have unlawfully released large quantities of cigarettes and tobacco products, prompting an investigation by the Maldives Police Service and the Attorney General’s Office. In response, the Government amended customs regulations to prohibit storing tobacco in bonded warehouses and restrict their establishment in residential areas.