Expat Arrested for Selling USD at Maldives Airport Faces 15-Day Remand

A 20-year-old Bangladeshi man has been remanded for 15 days after being arrested for selling US Dollars at Velana International Airport (VIA) without the necessary permit. The Criminal Court issued the remand order on Monday, following his arrest for allegedly conducting activities that require a permit without authorization. According to the remand order, the expat was stopped while exchanging US dollars near the airport's Terminal Two drop-off area. At the time of his arrest, he was unable to provide proof of employment or identify his sponsor. The Maldives has seen a high demand for US dollars on the black market, particularly during school holidays when travel needs increase. Many individuals involved in this trade are migrants, highlighting ongoing concerns over unauthorized currency exchanges in the country.