Female Police Officer, Former Journalist Arrested in Malé Drug Bust

In a drug operation that has raised serious concerns within the Maldives Police Service, a female police officer and a former journalist were arrested in Malé on suspicion of drug possession and use. The joint operation was carried out by the Drug Enforcement Department and Police Intelligence.

Two Suspects Caught with Suspected Cocaine

The individuals taken into custody are Aishath Shiyaza, 31, from Dhilbahaaruge, Alifu Dhaalu Kumburudhoo, and Saifulla Ahmed, 26, of Hazaarumaage, Haa Alifu Dhidhdhoo. Shiyaza is a serving officer with the Maldives Police Service, while Saifulla is a former journalist who had received recognition from the Maldives Media Council last year for lifestyle reporting.

The arrests were made near Viyafaariveringe Mosque after police received intelligence that Saifulla was actively searching for drugs with a companion. Officers intercepted the pair and found three rubber packets suspected to contain drugs, along with one unauthorized pill, in Saifulla’s bag. Police later confirmed the weight of the seized substances was over two grams.

Both Suspects Test Positive for Cocaine

Following their arrest, both Shiyaza and Saifulla were tested for narcotics, and results showed that they had cocaine in their system at the time of apprehension. Authorities told the court that Shiyaza had accompanied Saifulla to collect the drugs, strengthening the charges against them.

Shiyaza has since been suspended from active duty pending the outcome of the investigation. Meanwhile, both suspects face charges related to drug use, possession, and trafficking.

Court Orders Remand for Suspects

The two were brought before the Criminal Court shortly after their arrest. During the hearing, Shiyaza requested additional time to appoint legal counsel. The court ordered her to be remanded for five days. Saifulla, who did not make such a request, was remanded for ten days.

The Maldives Police Service has not released further details on the investigation, but confirmed that it is still ongoing.

The arrest of a serving officer in connection with a drug case has sparked renewed discussion about drug abuse and misconduct within law enforcement ranks. While this is not the first time a police officer has been linked to drug-related activity, the public nature of the case and the high-profile background of one of the suspects have drawn significant attention.

This case has once again brought focus to the challenges facing the Maldives in combating narcotics—particularly in urban centers like Malé, where drug use continues to pose a serious threat to public safety and youth well-being.

Authorities are expected to release further updates as the investigation develops.