Nine people have been arrested in a special operation conducted in AA. Rasdhoo on suspicion of possessing, using, and trading drugs and alcohol.

The arrests were made during an operation conducted yesterday by the Drug Enforcement Department, Counter Narcotics Intelligence, and AA. Atoll Police in coordination.

Police media stated today that 10 houses in Rasdhoo were searched during this operation. According to police, items suspected of being used for producing drugs and alcohol were found during these searches.

Those arrested in connection with the case include six men belonging to Rasdhoo, two individuals from other islands, and a Bangladeshi national. They are Mohamed Ulwan Rasheed (21), Lilimeed, AA. Rasdhoo; Ahmed Areef (37), Guldasthage, of the same island; Ibrahim Dhinaan (30), Hawamanzil; Ahmed Ikuleel (37), Fehivina; Ahmed Mohamed (44), Carnationmaage; and Ali Waseem (44), Carnationmaage. In addition, Leena Moosa (23), Vidhuvaruge, HDh. Kumundhoo; Rimaz Mohamed (29), Hikifinifenmaage, AA. Thoddoo; and Mehedi Hasan (27) from Bangladesh were also arrested.

Following their arrest under court orders, they were presented to court for remand hearings, where varying detention periods were ordered for different individuals. The court ordered Ibrahim Dinaan, Rimaz Mohamed, Ali Waseem, and Mehedi Hasan to be detained for 10 days. Ahmed Ikuleel was ordered to be detained for seven days, while Mohamed Ulwan Rasheed, Ahmed Areef, and Ahmed Mohamed were remanded for five days. Leena Moosa was ordered to be kept in detention for three days.

Police are continuing to investigate the matter.