The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has seized a Sri Lankan fishing vessel found operating illegally in Maldivian waters, recovering nearly half a tonne of drugs during the operation.
According to the Maldives Police Service, the vessel was intercepted by the MNDF near Makunudhoo at approximately 12:45am on 23 November. It was escorted to the port in Kulhudhuffushi City, where a thorough search was conducted by the MNDF Coast Guard and Kulhudhuffushi City Police on the morning of 24 November.
Commissioner of Police Ali Shujau revealed that a total of 468.6 kilograms of drugs were recovered from the vessel, including 344 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 124.6 kilograms of cocaine.
The operation was launched based on a tip-off received by the MNDF, highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts in combating drug trafficking.
“This was a successful collaborative effort between various agencies to prevent the entry of drugs into the Maldives,” Commissioner Ali Shujau stated.
The vessel had five crew members on board, all Sri Lankan nationals, who have been taken into custody. Investigations are ongoing.