The Great Cigarette Heist: Police Reveal Shocking Inside Job at Hulhumalé Port

The Maldives Police Service revealed details of a sophisticated theft of two containers of seized cigarettes from Hulhumalé International Terminal. The theft occurred on April 26, 2025, and was reported by Customs on October 9. Nine individuals were arrested, seven held until trial. The operation involved fake containers, a disguised vessel, and destruction of evidence at Thilafushi. Travel bans were imposed on 19 people. The estimated loss in state revenue is over MVR 100 million. The case raises concerns about security vulnerabilities.

The Maldives Police Service revealed details of a sophisticated theft of two containers of seized cigarettes from Hulhumalé International Terminal. The theft occurred on April 26, 2025, and was reported by Customs on October 9. Nine individuals were arrested, seven held until trial. The operation involved fake containers, a disguised vessel, and destruction of evidence at Thilafushi. Travel bans were imposed on 19 people. The estimated loss in state revenue is over MVR 100 million. The case raises concerns about security vulnerabilities.

The Maldives Police Service revealed details of a sophisticated theft of two containers of seized cigarettes from Hulhumalé International Terminal. The theft occurred on April 26, 2025, and was reported by Customs on October 9. Nine individuals were arrested, seven held until trial. The operation involved fake containers, a disguised vessel, and destruction of evidence at Thilafushi. Travel bans were imposed on 19 people. The estimated loss in state revenue is over MVR 100 million. The case raises concerns about security vulnerabilities.

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