Maldives Customs Service has destroyed a total of 3.1 million cigarette sticks that were seized while being smuggled into the country illegally. The destruction took place in Dhoonidhoo, Kaafu Atoll, in the presence of Customs officers and media personnel.

According to Customs, the cigarettes were confiscated during a raid conducted by the agency as part of its efforts to curb illegal imports.

Meanwhile, four individuals have been arrested in connection with the theft of two containers of cigarettes from Maldives Ports Limited (MPL). The missing containers contained 1,360 cases, equivalent to 13.6 million cigarette sticks, valued at over MVR 100 million in import duties.

Customs confirmed that it was notified about the disappearance of the containers by an employee of the agency. The authority stated that if the police investigation finds any Customs employee involved in the case, the strictest action will be taken in accordance with the law and regulations.

Six MPL employees, including a senior Customs officer, have been suspended in relation to the case. Among those suspended is former Senior Superintendent of Customs Muaz Ali. The four arrested suspects are identified as Ahmed Arif, 61; Mohamed Waheed, 65; Muaz Ali, 48; and Ziwar Ismail, 40.