A 38 year old Malaysian national has been arrested at Velana International Airport on suspicion of attempting to smuggle illegal drugs into the Maldives, police have confirmed.
The suspect, identified as Ranjini Jeevananthan, was taken into custody shortly after arriving in the country when authorities discovered a significant quantity of narcotics in her luggage during a routine inspection. However, officials have not yet disclosed the type or amount of drugs allegedly seized.
Arrest Made Following Luggage Inspection
According to police, the drugs were uncovered during standard arrival screening procedures at the airport. While details remain limited, investigators believe the seizure was substantial enough to warrant immediate detention.
Drug trafficking remains a serious criminal offence in the Maldives, with strict enforcement measures in place at all entry points, particularly at Velana International Airport, the country’s main international gateway. Authorities have consistently maintained heightened surveillance in response to ongoing concerns about cross-border narcotics trafficking.
Criminal Court Orders 15-Day Remand
The Criminal Court on Sunday ordered that Jeevananthan be held in custody for 15 days while investigations continue.
In its remand decision, the court stated that investigators had presented sufficient preliminary evidence to justify her continued detention. The order suggests that authorities believe the case meets the legal threshold required to proceed with further inquiry.
At this stage, no formal trial date has been announced.
Legal Representation Granted
During the court proceedings, the suspect requested permission to obtain legal counsel. The court approved her request, allowing her to seek representation as the investigation moves forward.
Under Maldivian law, individuals accused of criminal offences are entitled to legal representation, and remand hearings are typically conducted to determine whether suspects should remain in custody while police gather additional evidence.
Ongoing Investigation
Police have not released further details about the case, including whether the suspect acted alone or whether the arrest is linked to a broader investigation. It also remains unclear whether additional charges may follow once laboratory analysis of the seized substances is completed.
Cases involving drug trafficking often draw significant public attention in the Maldives, where authorities continue efforts to combat the circulation of narcotics. With investigations still underway, more information is expected to emerge in the coming days.
For now, the suspect remains in custody as law enforcement continues its probe.
