The street value of drugs and liquor seized across the Maldives so far this year exceeds MVR 875 million, the Maldives Police Service has said.

The figures were announced at a press conference held by the Police on Wednesday to present the results of drug enforcement operations carried out this year. The briefing outlined operational activities and investigation outcomes related to drugs and liquor.

Speaking at the press conference, Chief Inspector of Police Fatih Mohamed said major drug enforcement operations were conducted throughout the year. He presented statistics covering seizures made between 1 January and 20 December.

Chief Inspector Fatih stated that a total of 498.99 kilograms of drugs were seized during the period, with an estimated street value of MVR 871,243,131.

In addition, police seized 6,860 items of liquor, including bottles and cans. The estimated street value of the seized liquor stands at MVR 3,992,492.50.

Combined, the street value of drugs and liquor seized this year exceeds MVR 875 million, he said.

The Police Service said several major and successful operations were carried out this year to intercept drugs smuggled by sea and air. These operations were conducted in collaboration with Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard personnel.