Security

In a special drug operation conducted by the Maldives Police Service on January 1, 2026, many people were arrested from various areas of the island and Male'. This operation targeted drug trafficking networks across different parts of the Maldives, including those arrested from R. Dhuvaafaru and Male'. This police operation is an important step taken to maintain the safety of the Maldives in conjunction with the New Year and to save the society from the drug epidemic. Police are currently investigating matters that need further investigation in connection with this case.

Special measures against illegal activities and unauthorized businesses at Velana International Airport (VIA) have begun on January 1, 2026. As part of this effort, relevant authorities are conducting an operation to strengthen airport security and prevent those acting in violation of regulations. The main objective is to establish a safe and secure environment for those using the airport's services, as well as to protect the rights of businesses operating in accordance with regulations. The work of monitoring such improper activities in the airport area and taking legal action has now been further strengthened.

The individuals accused in the case of the murder of famous blogger Yameen Rasheed were arrested on January 1, 2026, for a retrial. It is reported that the decision to retry the suspected parties involved in this case was made due to matters that need further investigation regarding the previous verdicts. Therefore, the concerned authorities have ordered that these individuals remain in remand jail until the trial of this case is concluded.

In connection with a case of illegally producing and distributing alcohol in Male', police conducted a special operation on January 1, 2026, and arrested several individuals. During this operation, some households in Male' were searched, and police took into custody equipment used for brewing alcohol and a large number of bottles of alcohol. This operation, conducted to coincide with the beginning of the New Year, was part of a series of efforts initiated by the police to reduce crime and stop the drug trade in Male'. The investigation of those arrested in this case has now begun, and police note this as an important step taken to establish peace in Male'.

Cases of fraud and deceitful acquisition of money from other employees and theft of employees' personal belongings by some foreign employees working at Fuel Express Maldives came to light on January 1, 2026. In these incidents, foreigners, after gaining the trust of the employees, took large amounts of money under the pretext of various needs, and stole employees' personal belongings and phones from the company's accommodation blocks. In connection with this case, the relevant authorities are now conducting a special investigation to find the foreigners involved and recover the lost money and items.