Thirteen prison officers accused of supplying phones, drugs and other items to inmates have been remanded in custody.

Police earlier told the media that nine officers from Kaafu Maafushi, two officers from Kaafu Kaashidhoo and an officer each from Haa Alif Utheemu and Male' had been arrested.

Two of the officers were remanded in custody for five days and the remaining 11 officers were remanded for the duration of the trial. Police did not say which court they were summoned to.

Police conducted a raid of the officers' homes after their arrest.

Home Minister Ali Ihusan had said that 18 prison officers were involved in this network and that MVR 73.3 million had been deposited into their accounts last year alone.

He added that MVR 24 million was deposited to one officer's account within one year and the money was deposited in small amounts on various occasions.

Police conducted the operation following intelligence information that Maldives Correctional Service (MCS) officers were involved in supplying drugs and phones to Maafushi jail.