The Maldives Customs Service has refuted claims suggesting that the import of weapons of war is unrestricted, calling such reports misleading and fear-inducing.
In a press release, Customs clarified that recent news implying that "arms" or "military weapons" could be imported without any restrictions was incorrect. Customs emphasized that such misinformation could unnecessarily alarm the public.
Customs officials appeared before the Security Services Committee of the Parliament to address concerns raised by committee members. The meeting highlighted the challenges facing the Maldives' international ports and the management of its territorial waters.
Reliable information has indicated that drug smugglers are using local vessels to unload drugs at uninhabited islands before reaching the port. This was disclosed by Customs and the Maldives Police Service to the committee. Customs stated that the Security Services Committee had been informed that smuggling routes could potentially be used for other illegal items, not just drugs. Efforts to strengthen information sharing, surveillance, and monitoring among regional countries are ongoing, in collaboration with relevant authorities both within the Maldives and abroad.
The Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) monitors the country's territory 24/7 by sea and air. Customs conducts special operations in partnership with the MNDF and Maldives Police Service when risks are identified. Additionally, specialized training is being provided both domestically and internationally to enhance the capacity of Customs employees.
Customs assured the public that it remains committed to enforcing laws and regulations in line with government policies to prevent the smuggling of drugs and other illegal items into the Maldives.
In a press release, Customs clarified that recent news implying that "arms" or "military weapons" could be imported without any restrictions was incorrect. Customs emphasized that such misinformation could unnecessarily alarm the public.
Customs officials appeared before the Security Services Committee of the Parliament to address concerns raised by committee members. The meeting highlighted the challenges facing the Maldives' international ports and the management of its territorial waters.
Reliable information has indicated that drug smugglers are using local vessels to unload drugs at uninhabited islands before reaching the port. This was disclosed by Customs and the Maldives Police Service to the committee. Customs stated that the Security Services Committee had been informed that smuggling routes could potentially be used for other illegal items, not just drugs. Efforts to strengthen information sharing, surveillance, and monitoring among regional countries are ongoing, in collaboration with relevant authorities both within the Maldives and abroad.
The Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) monitors the country's territory 24/7 by sea and air. Customs conducts special operations in partnership with the MNDF and Maldives Police Service when risks are identified. Additionally, specialized training is being provided both domestically and internationally to enhance the capacity of Customs employees.
Customs assured the public that it remains committed to enforcing laws and regulations in line with government policies to prevent the smuggling of drugs and other illegal items into the Maldives.
