The Maldives Police Service has arrested three individuals, including prominent state media presenter Inayath Ali, on suspicion of drug use and dealing following a late-night operation on Thursday.

The Counter Narcotics Intelligence and Drug Enforcement Department, acting on a court order, seized a hand-rolled cigarette believed to contain narcotics along with rubber packets from two separate residences. The combined weight of the suspected drugs is provisionally estimated at 1.25 kilograms.

Those arrested are Mohamed Aish Ahmed (31), Aminath Illiyyin Ahmed (25) of Machchangolhi Mazaage, Malé, and Inayath Ali (34) of Mariaaz, Haa Dhaalu Kulhudhuffushi. 

The court has ordered Mohamed Aish Ahmed held for 10 days, while Aminath Illiyyin Ahmed and Inayath Ali are each remanded for seven days. Police confirmed that the investigation is ongoing.