President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has ratified amendments to the Drug Act, which were approved by the People’s Majlis. These amendments stipulate that individuals involved in the importation or trafficking of illicit drugs into the Maldives may now face the death penalty.
The death penalty will be applicable in cases where more than 350 grams of cannabis, 250 grams of diamorphine, or 100 grams of any other type of narcotic is imported, or if drugs are imported into the Maldives upon entry. Such a sentence can only be imposed by the unanimous decision of a bench of Supreme Court judges. Should there be no unanimous agreement, the sentence will be life imprisonment along with a fine ranging from MVR 100,000 to MVR 10,000,000. Furthermore, individuals who receive the death penalty or a life sentence for drug importation offenses will not be eligible for a pardon, commutation, or release on parole.
The primary objectives of this bill are to strengthen the powers of law enforcement agencies in combating drug trafficking and usage, and to reinforce the rehabilitation system for individuals with drug addictions. Under these amendments, provisions have been introduced to allow the state to confiscate assets and funds acquired through drug-related offenses. Even if a person is not convicted by the court, if certain conditions are met, the court will be mandated to order the forfeiture of assets and funds linked to the crime. Additionally, the powers granted to Customs officers and the police to prevent the importation of illicit drugs via air and sea have been significantly enhanced. The bill was passed by the Majlis with the unanimous agreement of 65 members.
