A Maldivian man and several foreign women involved in a widespread prostitution and drug trafficking operation in a Hiyaa Tower in Hulhumalé have been arrested.

Police said today that based on information received about a Maldivian and a foreigner colluding to bring foreign women into the Maldives, engaging them in prostitution for money, and possessing and using illicit drugs, an apartment in Hiyaa Tower 12 was searched.

Police stated that five individuals were arrested during the operation conducted last Saturday night. These include one Maldivian and four women from Uzbekistan.

  • Hussain Solah, 40, Cuba, R. Rasgetheemu
  • Zarima Gulamovena Deguraeva, 40 years old
  • Dildora Egamnazarova, 31 years old
  • Shahzodakhon Rustamova, 28 years old
  • Umidabonu Nemato, 34 years old

Police said that these individuals were arrested from the scene of the crime, and Hussain Solah and Zarima Gulamovena Deguraeva are suspected of being key figures in orchestrating these crimes.

Police also stated that when these individuals were taken into custody and the apartment was searched, USD 19,100 and over MVR 18,000 were found.

Police added that when they were presented to court to determine their remand period, Hussain Solah and Zarima Gulamovena Deguraeva were remanded for 10 days, and the other three women for 5 days.

Police are further investigating this case.