An Maldivian national was handed a 12 year prison sentence, along with a fine of MVR 50,000 after being convicted of smuggling drugs into the country.
The Criminal Court said the individual was sentenced last week, and that the drug bust was made in July 2023 when the person was caught trying to smuggle drugs into the country by air. A paper box the person brought was searched and 480.8 grams of cannabis was found in a bottle along with 481.9 grams more in another bottle.
The original punishment for the offence is a life sentence of 25 years along with a fine of MVR 100,000. However, the Criminal Court sentenced the person to 12 years in prison, imposing a fine of MVR 50,000 as well under a plea bargain with the state.
Although sentenced to 12 years, the person will serve 10 years and 11 months in jail after deducting one year and seven months already spent in custody during the investigation and trial.
The MVR 50,000 fine is also payable within a period of one year.