NCB to Indians: Be vigilant in Maldives as drug laws include death penalty
The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) on Thursday cautioned Indians planning a visit to the Maldives to remain extremely vigilant about their belongings as the island country has strengthened its anti-drug laws, including harsh punishments like the death penalty in extreme cases.
“Be aware that ignorance of the law is not a defence and any legal violations may result in severe punishments,” the federal anti-narcotics agency said. The advisory comes after the Maldives recently “strengthened” its anti-narcotics laws by amending the Maldives’ Drugs Act, effective March 2026. The NCB said the amendments 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 a competent court under Maldivian laws. The amended law provides stricter punishment even for possessing small quantities of prohibited substances, it said.
The High Commission of India in the Maldives has also issued advisories urging Indian nationals to strictly comply with local laws and regulations, it said. The NCB “strongly” advises Indians to exercise “extreme” caution at all ports and transit points when unknown individuals request that they carry goods.
Indian passengers should not carry any package, baggage or item on behalf of others under any circumstances, without being absolutely sure of the contents, it said.
“Maintain full control and supervision of (your) personal baggage at all times,” the NCB said.
The agency added that recent instances have been reported involving the arrests of foreign nationals, including Indian citizens, in the Maldives for drug-related offences.
