Malé, Maldives – A 30-year-old Bangladeshi national, Rasul Ulaa Ridoi, was arrested by the Maldives Police Service for attempting to smuggle over 106 bottles of liquor. The incident occurred late on the night of September 12, 2024, when Ridoi attempted to flee after abandoning a car upon spotting police officers patrolling the streets of Malé City.

The police chased Ridoi and subsequently arrested him after searching the vehicle and discovering the illegal liquor stash. Liquor is strictly prohibited for use or sale on inhabited islands of the Maldives, though it is permitted in resort islands under licensed holders.

Ridoi was brought to court on September 16, where a judge ordered a 15-day remand pending further investigation. Police are continuing their inquiries into the smuggling operation.

This arrest highlights the ongoing efforts by Maldivian authorities to curb the illegal distribution of liquor in inhabited islands, where it remains a criminal offense under Maldivian law.