An expatriate man, arrested for the illegal possession and distribution of alcohol, has been transferred to the Maldives Immigration for deportation.

The suspect, identified as Shofigul Islam, was apprehended on Wednesday during a joint operation conducted by the Counter Narcotics Intelligence and Drug Enforcement units.

The 44-year-old was searched and taken into custody, and law enforcement officers subsequently conducted a search of his residence. During the search, they discovered 16 bottles of liquor in his possession.

Although the investigation is ongoing, police have confirmed that the man has been handed over to Immigration authorities for deportation.