Maldives Police Service (MPS) have launched a special operation against narcotics and alcohol ahead of the upcoming new year celebrations.
Police in a post on social media platforms said that it anticipates a high volume of peddling of drugs and alcohol during the upcoming new year celebrations.
In light of the perceived uptick, the Drug Enforcement Unit, Hulhumale’ Police, Marine Police and Kaafu Atoll police stations have launched a special operation, the post said.
Police said the operation will include patrolling the Hulhumale’ harbour, monitoring cafes and restaurants suspected of selling alcohol.
Police also warned of strict action against any violations.
Last year, police seized drugs and alcohol worth around USD356,000 in two weeks during an operation conducted in December.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu on 8 December had announced that drugs worth around USD84.3 million have been seized so far this year. The 655kg of drugs seized by law enforcement agencies during that period is six percent more than the previous year, the President had said.