MALÉ, Maldives — Maldives Police have arrested nine Bangladeshi nationals suspected of being involved in the sale and trafficking of illegal drugs in Malé City.

The arrests were made by the Drug Enforcement Department during an operation at a guesthouse in the capital. Police said a large quantity of drugs was recovered from the guesthouse during the operation.

The nine suspects have been identified as 35-year-old Thohidhul Islam, 37-year-old Moneeru Bepari, 46-year-old Jarick Munshi, 37-year-old Abu Zubair Paramanik, 23-year-old MD Usmaan, 34-year-old Mohamed Babloo Ali, 32-year-old MD Raihaan, 34-year-old Afranul Hogg Aashig, and 30-year-old Mohamed Rakib Hussein.

Police said the men are suspected of being involved in the sale and trafficking of drugs, with the arrests forming part of an investigation into an alleged drug dealing network operating in Malé.

According to police, all nine suspects are being transferred to Maldives Immigration while the investigation continues.

Authorities have not disclosed the type or exact quantity of drugs recovered from the guesthouse.

The arrests are part of ongoing efforts by Maldives Police to identify and disrupt drug trafficking and distribution networks operating in the capital.