The son of Islamic Minister Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed was reportedly stopped by Maldives Customs while attempting to bring vape products into the country.
Abdulla Mahil Shaheem, who serves as Third Secretary at the Maldives High Commission in Malaysia, was allegedly found with a large quantity of vape devices and related accessories in his luggage. Some items were reportedly strapped to his body.
Mahil, appointed to the diplomatic post on 6 July 2024, is also a member of the Youth Advisory Board that advises President Mohamed Muizzu. He resides in Malaysia with his wife and child, earning more than MVR 100,000 per month in salary and allowances.
A Maldives Customs Service media officer said the matter would be looked into, but no official statement has been issued. Several customs officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the incident and said Mahil was detained and searched. They added that vape paraphernalia was seized and Mahil was fined MVR 1 million. The specific items seized have not been disclosed.
Importing vape products into the Maldives is prohibited under current regulations.