Following a thorough investigation into a narcotics smuggling case, a Bangladeshi national has been sentenced to 23 years in prison and ordered to pay a fine of MVR 100,000.

The Maldives Police Service stated yesterday that MD Sohab Mia was prosecuted under the Drugs Act for the illegal importation of controlled substances.

The case originated on June 28, 2024, when Sohab Mia arrived at Velana International Airport (VIA) aboard US-Bangla Airlines flight BS337. During the screening process, customs officials grew suspicious after X-raying his luggage. A more detailed inspection led to the discovery of a packet containing suspected narcotics concealed within a laptop bag.

Forensic analysis subsequently confirmed that the seized substance consisted of 535.6632 grams of methamphetamine.

Throughout the investigation, authorities gathered necessary evidence, conducted laboratory tests on the substances, and compiled statements from the officers involved in the operation to build a comprehensive case for the court. Based on the investigation's findings, the Prosecutor General’s Office charged him with the offense of importing a Schedule 1 narcotic into the Maldives.

The Criminal Court, after reviewing the case, found the individual guilty of the charges. Consequently, the court sentenced him to 23 years, 3 months, and 25 days in prison—after deducting the period he had already spent in custody—and imposed a fine of MVR 100,000.

The police highlighted that this conviction is a direct result of the robust collaborative efforts between the Maldives Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to prevent the inflow of narcotics into the country. Authorities emphasized their commitment to taking the most stringent legal actions against individuals involved in the drug trade.