Five Sri Lankans arrested from a fishing boat with 468kg of drugs have been remanded in custody for 30 days.
Police disclosed their identities and said the remand was extended by Kulhudhuffushi Magistrate Court on Monday.
Sri Lankan nationals in police custody
- Rajapaksha Gemage Denusha Madumal, age 21
- Mutthima Patabindige Amishk Sanjeeva Kumar, age 22
- Tamod Thivanga Dilakawa, age 22
- Lawrence Hewagi Sarath, age 56
- Vijevaru Gunaratna Mahavidoma, age 37
The vessel named Ashengutha was apprehended by the Coast Guard while operating illegally within Maldives territory.
The drugs found onboard were confirmed as 344kg of crystal meth and 124kg of cocaine. The street value of the drug haul is estimated to be around MVR 1 billion.
Police said further investigations were underway. It is unclear whether the drugs were connected to a trafficking network in the Maldives.
