Two Bangladeshi nationals have been detained in Hulhumalé for allegedly operating an unauthorized waste disposal business in violation of several laws.

According to the Maldives Police Service, the two men were taken into custody at approximately 8:45 a.m. on Monday.

The suspects were identified as 43-year-old MD Habeeb Ulah and 39-year-old MD Monir.

Police said Habeeb holds a valid work visa as a tailor employed by AU Fehun, while Monir is registered as a mason under Gold King Pvt. Ltd.

The pair were detained along with a pickup truck that authorities allege was being used to collect and transport waste from various locations across Hulhumalé.

Investigators determined that the two had been operating a private waste disposal service without authorization, allegedly violating the Public Health Protection Act, the Waste Management Act, the Immigration Act, and the Employment Act.

Following their arrest, both individuals were transferred to the custody of Maldives Immigration for further action.