MALÉ, Maldives – Amendments to the Maldivian drug law, empowering authorities to impose severe penalties including the death penalty for individuals involved in importing and trafficking illicit drugs, have officially come into effect today.
Under the revised legislation, a death sentence for drug trafficking can only be delivered upon the unanimous verdict of a Supreme Court bench. Should the Supreme Court bench not reach a unanimous decision for capital punishment, the offender will instead face life imprisonment alongside a fine ranging from MVR 100,000 (one hundred thousand Rufiyaa) to MVR 10,000,000 (ten million Rufiyaa).
Legislative Timeline
The bill received parliamentary approval on 3rd December. It was subsequently ratified by President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu three days later. The three-month period designated for the enactment of the law concluded today, marking its official implementation.
Criteria for Capital Punishment
The amendments specify three primary conditions related to drug weight under which the death penalty can be applied:
- Cannabis: quantities exceeding 350 grammes.
- Diamorphine (Heroin): quantities exceeding 250 grammes.
- Other categories of illicit drugs: quantities exceeding 100 grammes.
Additionally, the death penalty can be applied if an individual is found to be importing illicit drugs into the Maldives, particularly upon their entry into the country.
Previous Penalties
Prior to these amendments, the maximum penalty stipulated under the Maldives’ drug law was life imprisonment, defined as 25 years, coupled with a fine between MVR 100,000 (one hundred thousand Rufiyaa) and MVR 10,000,000 (ten million Rufiyaa).
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