The Criminal Court has issued its first order to close a residence in Male' used as a drug cafe'.
This marks the first time such an order has been granted since the judiciary was empowered under the Drug Act to shutter premises utilised for such purposes.
The court order mandates the closure of Henveiru Gunzar for a period of 90 days, effective from May 5, 2026. The Maldives Police Service has described this order as a major milestone in their ongoing efforts to combat the drug epidemic.
The Drugs Act was amended on March 7, 2026, granting police the authority to issue 24-hour closure notices to drug cafes, while empowering courts to extend such closures for up to three months.
Under the law, providing drug-use services is a criminal offense punishable by five years in prison and a fine of up to MVR 100,000. Furthermore, any owner, tenant, or person in charge of a property who knowingly permits or facilitates such activities can be held liable. The Act stipulates stringent penalties for those found complicit in allowing their premises to be used for these purposes.
It is legally prohibited to enter or exit premises closed under a court order without authorization during the specified period. Police have warned that the strictest legal action will be taken against individuals who trespass or cause damage to these properties.
