A third individual has been arrested in connection with an alleged attempt to remove cigarette cartons from the departure terminal of Velana International Airport.

The Maldives Police Service confirmed that a 23-year-old, identified as Mohamed Aiham, was taken into custody in relation to the case. Authorities stated that the arrest was made under a court order, and he has been remanded in custody for ten days following a court appearance.

This latest development follows the earlier arrests of two individuals linked to the case. Among those previously detained are Ahmed Afzal and Yoosuf Nazeer.

Police also confirmed that Yoosuf Nazeer, who was involved in the case, was serving as a police sergeant at the time of his arrest. As a result, he has been suspended from duty, and his salary payments have been halted.