Two men have been arrested and remanded in custody for 15 days in connection with an attempt to smuggle drugs valued at approximately MVR 29 million into the Maldives by sea.

According to the Maldives Customs Service, the drugs were discovered on Thursday during an inspection of cargo transported into the country via sea. Authorities reported that the seized substances weighed 36.43 kilograms and carried an estimated street value of MVR 29 million.

The Maldives Police Service stated on Sunday that the two suspects were apprehended the same day as part of a coordinated police operation.

The individuals have been identified as Hassan Mafaz, 26, of Madhaaruge, M. Mulah, and Visham Mohamed, 35, of H. Filmeesite.

Police confirmed that both suspects were presented before the court and ordered to be held in remand custody for 15 days pending further investigation.

Authorities said investigations into the case are ongoing.