Police have closed a property in Fuvahmulah accused of being used for drug-related activities, marking what authorities describe as the first court-ordered shutdown of a suspected drug cafe outside Malé.

Maldives Police Service said the premises, located at Gulistaanuge in the Funadu ward of Fuvahmulah City, was sealed following an order issued by the Fuvahmulah Magistrate Court under the Narcotics Act.

According to police, the property was allegedly used for importing, selling, and distributing narcotics, while also serving as a location where drugs were consumed.

Authorities stated that the court ordered the premises to remain closed for 85 days as part of ongoing efforts to combat drug-related crime.

Police noted that this is the first time the Fuvahmulah Magistrate Court has authorised the closure of a premises accused of facilitating drug use and trafficking.

Under the court order, entering or leaving the property without authorization during the closure period is considered a criminal offence.

Police warned that legal action would be taken against anyone violating the order or damaging the property.

In a statement, police thanked members of the public for supporting anti-drug efforts in Fuvahmulah and reaffirmed their commitment to identifying and taking action against properties linked to narcotics activities.

The closure follows a recent large-scale anti-narcotics operation in Fuvahmulah, during which police said they dismantled a major drug network operating on the island.

Police added that efforts to locate properties connected to drug trafficking and drug use will continue under the law.