Police say Interpol will issue red notices for suspects involved in trafficking drugs into the Maldives from overseas. Chief Inspector of Police Ahmed Naif said Maldivians based abroad are coordinating networks that send drugs into the country.
Naif told reporters that these groups operate mainly in Southeast Asian countries. He noted that Thailand and Malaysia have large Maldivian populations and are central points for the smuggling routes. Drugs are transported to the Maldives through air and sea cargo.
According to police, narcotics are mostly concealed in kitchen utensils and electronic equipment for transport. Naif said authorities intend to bring suspects back to the Maldives for investigation through international cooperation and, if required, the issuance of red notices.
Investigations are ongoing in coordination with foreign agencies. Naif said discussions with the relevant countries are already under way and outcomes will follow as work progresses.
Police have seized more than 498 kilograms of drugs so far this year.