The Maldives Police Service has announced that Abdhul Baasith, 28, of Gasdhoshuge, Dhoondigan, Gnaviyani Fuvahmulah, was sentenced to 75 years in prison and fined MVR 300,000 on 24 July after being convicted of drug trafficking and money laundering. The sentencing follows a special operation targeting drug networks in Fuvahmulah City.

Details of Arrest and Investigation

Baasith was apprehended on 27 April 2024, as part of a special operation initiated by the police in 2024. This operation specifically targeted networks involved in importing and selling illicit drugs in Fuvahmulah City, as well as money laundering activities stemming from drug proceeds. During a search of his residence following his arrest, a substantial quantity of controlled substances was discovered. The police concluded their investigation into his case and submitted it to the Prosecutor General’s Office for prosecution on 11 June 2024.

Broader Operation Success

During the ongoing investigation related to this operation, 174 individuals suspected of involvement in two extensive drug trafficking and money laundering networks operating in Fuvahmulah City, including their key figures, have been brought under police custody on various dates. To date, 188 cases have been investigated against these individuals, with 78 cases forwarded to the Prosecutor General’s Office requesting prosecution.

Money Laundering Uncovered

Police investigations revealed extensive financial transactions between the principal figures of the two suspected networks engaged in widespread drug trade and money laundering within Fuvahmulah City. Specifically, bank accounts registered under Abdhul Baasith’s name saw transactions exceeding MVR 3 million and over USD 19,000 from various parties. The police confirmed that these financial transactions were proceeds derived from drug trafficking activities.