Maldives Customs Service has seized 18 kilograms of drugs in an attempted smuggling operation, following a tip-off received through intelligence channels.

The illicit narcotics, concealed inside plastic tree pots, arrived in the Maldives on a flight from Bangalore.

According to Maldives Customs, the drugs were hidden in 33 separate packets and later tested positive for cannabinoid oil, a psychoactive substance derived from cannabis.

The total estimated value of the seized narcotics stands at MVR 26 million.

The seizure was part of a special operation carried out by customs officers.

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology, Ali Ihusaan, commended the officers involved, emphasizing that their efforts are a critical part of maintaining secure borders in accordance with the special instructions from President Dr. Muizzu.

The minister said that this operation reflects the dedication of our frontline officers and the government’s firm commitment to cracking down on drug trafficking.

The minister further noted that the Maldives is actively dismantling the operational environment for traffickers and enforcing the law to its fullest extent to ensure the safety and security of this nation.