An Iranian national in detained until the end of his trial in connection to an illegal drugs case has passed away.

Maldives Correctional Service said that the deceased is a 49-year-old man named Rahumathulla who has chronic cancer.

The man dies at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital last night at 11:49 p.m. while undergoing treatment. The Correctional Service said that he was ordered to be detained until the end of the trial after being charged with drug trafficking.

Following his death, the Correctional Service has informed the Inspector of Correctional Service, Maldives Police Service and the Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM).