Two Maldivians have been arrested for attempting to smuggle 2.4 kilograms of narcotics into the country by air.

The arrests followed additional searches conducted by Maldives Customs Service on the passengers, who had arrived from Thailand on 26 December.

The individuals, aged 41 and 21, were found to have concealed the drugs within their bodies. Initial tests confirmed the substances contained heroin and mephedrone.

The seized narcotics, including their packaging, have an estimated street value of MVR 5.5 million.

Customs has handed over the confiscated drugs and the suspects to the Maldives Police Service for further investigation. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to combating drug trafficking and protecting the nation from such illicit activities.