The Maldives Police Service has apprehended nine Bangladeshi nationals on suspicion of drug trafficking following a coordinated operation in the capital city.

According to official statements, the arrests were made during a joint operation conducted last Tuesday by the Drug Enforcement Department and Counter Narcotics Intelligence. During a search of a guesthouse in Malé, authorities discovered substances suspected to be narcotics. However, specific details regarding the volume or type of drugs seized have not been disclosed by the police.

The individuals taken into custody are Tohidul Islam (35), Monir Bepari (37), Jakir Munshi (46), MD Abu Zaber Pramanik (37), MD Usman (23), Mohammad Babloo Ali (34), MD Raihan (32), Afranhul Hog Ashik (34), and Mohamed Rakib Hossain (30).

Following the completion of necessary legal procedures, the suspects have been handed over to Maldives Immigration for deportation. The police confirmed that the investigation into the matter is still ongoing.