Two individuals have been detained on suspicion of employing a minor to smuggle drugs, in what authorities describe as a grave violation of Maldivian law.

The individuals, Ahmed Naeem from Satellite, Vilimale’ and Hassan Nuaz from Naazleemanzil, Vilimale’, were arrested on allegations of drug trafficking and the exploitation of a minor. Both were held in custody for 30 days.

The arrest warrant indicates that authorities uncovered proof of substantial monetary transfers between the two individuals. Authorities have not revealed additional information regarding the case or the child's age involved.

Involvement of a minor in a drug offense is a serious crime according to Maldivian law. Section 105 of the Narcotic Drugs Act prohibits involving a child, defined as anyone below 18, in transporting, selling, transferring, or engaging in any drug-related activities.

According to Section 105(b), anyone employing a child to perpetrate a drug crime faces the maximum penalty set for that crime. For drug trafficking, this entails a life sentence and a penalty ranging from MVR 100,000 to MVR 10 million.

The Child Rights Protection Act requires the state to safeguard children from exploitation, abuse, and any actions that threaten their welfare.

Authorities have not indicated if more charges will be filed as the inquiry progresses.