The government has proposed an amendment to the Drugs Act aimed at confiscating money and property derived from the drug trade. The bill, introduced on behalf of the government by Parliamentarian Yoosuf Nasheed, seeks to enhance the powers of law enforcement agencies to tackle drug possession, use, and related crimes, while also strengthening the treatment system for drug addicts to facilitate their reintegration into society.
Key provisions include the regulation of newly controlled drugs, additional drug-related offenses and penalties, and a review of drug court operations. The amendment also proposes increasing the membership of the National Drug Control Council, which currently has 12 members.
The amendment to Section 161 of the Act mandates the forfeiture of property and money seized in drug offenses to the state. This includes assets used for or obtained through criminal activities. The bill further requires courts to order the forfeiture of money or property linked to drug offenses, even if the defendant is not convicted of trafficking.
Additionally, the amendment strengthens the powers of customs officers and police to combat drug smuggling into Maldives by air and sea.