The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has donated drug testing kits to the Maldives Police Service and Maldives Customs Service to strengthen efforts to combat drug trafficking and abuse in the country.

The kits were initially handed over to the National Drug Agency (NDA) in January, with a formal ceremony held to transfer the equipment to the relevant enforcement authorities.

Speaking at the event, NDA Acting Chief Executive Officer Mohamed Rashid said the rise of synthetic and factory-produced drugs presents new challenges, requiring updated approaches to treatment and prevention. He noted that specialised treatment programmes for such substances remain limited globally, highlighting the need for alternative strategies.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Farhad Fikry described the threat of synthetic drugs in the Maldives as serious, adding that the donation reflects not only the provision of equipment but also a broader commitment to regional cooperation in tackling drug trafficking.

Deputy Commissioner of Customs Ibrahim Mafaz said enforcement efforts have been strengthened in recent years, with expanded inspections of goods entering the Maldives by air and sea. He noted that the newly received equipment would significantly enhance these efforts.

The donation includes 30 drug test kits, 30 precursor chemical test kits, and 180 portable chemical testing kits, along with USB drives containing training materials on their use.

Of these, 20 drug and precursor kits and 60 portable kits were handed over to Customs, while 40 drug and precursor kits and 120 portable kits were provided to the Police.

According to the NDA, each kit is capable of conducting up to 500 tests and is designed to deliver rapid and accurate results. The kits can detect up to 10 types of drugs commonly trafficked into the Maldives and are suitable for use as evidence in enforcement operations.