MNDF Private Arrested for Drug Use and Possession, Held for Five Days

A member of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has been arrested on suspicion of using and possessing narcotics, and the Criminal Court has ordered him held in custody for five days. The person arrested by police in the case is Mohamed Rizaan Ali Zahir, 19, of Vaadhoo, Thulusdhoo, Kaafu Atoll. The detention order was issued by the Criminal Court. According to the Criminal Court's detention order, Rizaan was arrested in accordance with legal procedures. The order also notes that the five-day detention period was set after he told the court that he wishes to proceed in this case with a legal attorney. According to the police Investigation Officer (IO) at the court, Rizaan holds the rank of Private in the Maldives National Defence Force.