The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has arrested a foreign national at Velana International Airport (VIA) on suspicion of illegally trading foreign currency.

The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Bangladeshi national, was apprehended on 16 September following intelligence that dollars were being exchanged without authorisation near resort counters at the airport.

Police reported that a search of the suspect uncovered more than MVR 68,000, USD 1,700, and other foreign currency. Investigations further revealed that the individual had been residing in the Maldives without legal status.

The Criminal Court has since ordered a 15-day remand in custody while the Maldives Police Service continues its investigation.