NCB issues travel warning over tougher Maldives drug laws

NCB has issued an advisory for Indian travellers to Maldives, warning against carrying unknown packages due to stricter anti-drug laws there. The agency cautioned that violations can lead to severe penalties, including life imprisonment or death under Maldivian law

New Delhi: In view of the Maldives adding more teeth to its anti-drug laws, the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) on Thursday advised Indian citizens to avoid carrying to the island any package, baggage or item on behalf of others without being sure of the contents.

In an advisory issued ahead of the summer vacation season, the NCB cautioned Indian citizens travelling to or visiting the Maldives regarding the recent strengthening of anti-narcotics laws in that country and educated them against unknowingly becoming couriers for drug traffickers.

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The NCB said in a statement that the recent legislative amendments to the Maldives’ Drugs Act, effective from March 2026, prescribe significantly enhanced penalties for drug-related offences, including life imprisonment and, in certain cases involving large-scale trafficking, the death penalty, subject to confirmation by the competent court under the Maldivian law.

The amended law provides stricter punishment even for possession of small quantities of prohibited substances, the central agency added.

Recent instances have been reported involving foreign nationals, including Indian citizens, being arrested in the Maldives for drug-related offences.

In this regard, High Commission of India in Male has also issued advisories urging Indian nationals to strictly comply with local laws and regulations.

“In view of the above, all Indian citizens are strongly advised not to carry any package, baggage, or item on behalf of others under any circumstances without being absolutely sure of the contents,” the NCB said.

“They are also advised to observe exercise extreme caution at airports, ports, and transit points when approached by unknown requesting carriage of goods,” it added.

Advising Indian citizens to always ensure proper supervision of personal baggage, the NCB told them to be mindful of the fact that ignorance of the law is not a defence and any legal violations may result in severe punishments.

Indian citizens are urged to report any suspicious approach or incident at the MANAS National Narcotics Helpline ‘1933’.

“The NCB reiterates its zero-tolerance approach towards drug trafficking and urges all citizens to remain vigilant, responsible, and law-abiding while travelling abroad,” the statement said.