Cop suspected of illegal vape sale, drug possession released on procedural error

An officer of the Maldives Police Service from Thinadhoo City, who was arrested for possession of vape, accessories and narcotics, have been released over procedural errors.

According to Police, a Constable of the Special Constabulary of Thinadhoo City Police, was brought in for questioning and their residence and properties were searched on suspicion of possession and sale tobacco and vape products.

Following an intelligence report, police had inspected the officer’s place of residence and motorbike last Friday through a court warrant and discovered vape products including sticks and flavor cartridges along with 191.92 grams of a substance believed to be illicit narcotics.

Police said that the officer in question was acquitted when he was presented to the court to decide his remand. The court of first instance held the court warrant for the officer’s arrest was unlawful and cited procedural errors.

“We are working with the Prosecutor General’s Office to appeal the lower court decision to acquit the suspect,” police said.

The law enforcement authority confirmed suspending the officer in question, and added they were investigating the case.