Police seize smuggled cigarettes in operation

The Maldives Police Service seized a quantity of smuggled cigarettes and tobacco products during an intelligence-led operation on Wednesday night. Searches were conducted at a residence in Galolhu, an apartment at Amaan Dhodhi in Hulhumalé Phase 2, and a van linked to the case. Police confiscated 18 cases of tobacco and 75 cartons of cigarettes, and the van was towed. No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. The operation targeted illegal import and sale of cigarette brands. In March, Home Minister Ali Ihusan reported that joint operations had seized approximately two million illicit cigarettes. Authorities have noted an increase in smuggled cigarettes since the government raised cigarette prices in late 2024.

The Maldives Police Service seized a quantity of smuggled cigarettes and tobacco products during an intelligence-led operation on Wednesday night. Searches were conducted at a residence in Galolhu, an apartment at Amaan Dhodhi in Hulhumalé Phase 2, and a van linked to the case. Police confiscated 18 cases of tobacco and 75 cartons of cigarettes, and the van was towed. No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. The operation targeted illegal import and sale of cigarette brands. In March, Home Minister Ali Ihusan reported that joint operations had seized approximately two million illicit cigarettes. Authorities have noted an increase in smuggled cigarettes since the government raised cigarette prices in late 2024.

The Maldives Police Service seized a quantity of smuggled cigarettes and tobacco products during an intelligence-led operation on Wednesday night. Searches were conducted at a residence in Galolhu, an apartment at Amaan Dhodhi in Hulhumalé Phase 2, and a van linked to the case. Police confiscated 18 cases of tobacco and 75 cartons of cigarettes, and the van was towed. No arrests have been made, and the investigation is ongoing. The operation targeted illegal import and sale of cigarette brands. In March, Home Minister Ali Ihusan reported that joint operations had seized approximately two million illicit cigarettes. Authorities have noted an increase in smuggled cigarettes since the government raised cigarette prices in late 2024.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of smuggling / cigarettes.