Maldives to Deploy Full Container Scanners to Curb Drug Trafficking

The Maldives will operationalize a full container scanner at its main port within the next four months to intensify the fight against drug trafficking and the smuggling of prohibited items. Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan announced the move, emphasizing the government's commitment to strengthening border security. The new scanning system is being implemented through a strategic partnership between Maldives Ports Limited (MPL) and the Maldives Customs Service. This technology aims to eliminate the reliance on random checks, allowing for more comprehensive screening of cargo entering the country. Once fully deployed, authorities expect a significant increase in the detection of smuggled goods. Speaking at a press conference for World No Tobacco Day, Minister Ihusaan highlighted that border security has already been bolstered through intelligence-led operations. He noted that a rise in recent seizures indicates that law enforcement agencies have successfully enhanced their enforcement capabilities, particularly regarding the import of vapes and other banned substances. The initiative aligns with a broader strategy mandated by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, which centralized all agencies combatting drug trafficking under a single ministry. This structural shift is designed to streamline the national response to both the inflow of illegal narcotics and the reduction of domestic demand. Significant progress has already been made in air cargo security, where all imported packages are now scanned rather than subject to random sampling. These tightened measures have yielded substantial results, with authorities seizing 1,294 kilograms of drugs over the past two and a half years. The introduction of the container scanner represents the next critical phase in securing the nation's maritime borders against organized crime.