Drugs Smuggled in Syrup Bottles: Suspect Claims Unaware of Contents

A suspect detained in connection with the attempted smuggling of hashish oil into the Maldives, concealed in chocolate syrup bottles, has claimed he was unaware of the drugs inside the package when he collected it. Two suspects, Ahmed Ali, 47, from HA. Hoarafushi, and Mohamed Adil, 57, from Th. Thimarafushi, were arrested in the case. Ahmed Ali’s remand was extended by 15 days after his initial remand period expired, as police believe he played an active role in the smuggling attempt. However, Ali maintains he was unaware of the contents, stating he works in goods clearance. The package, intercepted by Maldives Customs, contained hashish oil valued at MVR 30 million, with each bottle holding between 1.10 and 1.14 milliliters. Under Maldivian law, importing over 350 grams of cannabis-based substances is punishable by death.