Roona remanded pending trial’s end in drug case three months after arrest

Aminath Roona, who is accused of orchestrating an attempt to smuggle 1.5 kilograms of narcotics into the Maldives, has been remanded in custody pending the conclusion of her trial.

Maldives Police Service previously identified the 29-year-old as the alleged mastermind behind the smuggling ring.

Roona was arrested on April 17. Following several extensions to her remand, the court on Thursday ordered that she remain in custody until the conclusion of the trial.

Another suspect, 25-year-old Alya Sharsa Naseer, was also arrested in connection with the case.

According to previously disclosed court documents, the 1.5 kilograms of suspected narcotics were discovered in the luggage of a traveller who entered the Maldives under Roona's alleged instructions. During the investigation, the lead investigating officer testified that Roona was the principal coordinator of the attempted importation.

Both defendants have been charged with offences related to the importation, possession, distribution and trafficking of narcotics. While initial court records referred to a provisional seizure of 1.8 kilograms, the ongoing investigation is focused on 1.5 kilograms of the substance.

During their initial court appearances, Roona's defence requested access to police body-worn camera footage. Previous court proceedings also noted that Alya is receiving treatment for depression.

Under Section 104 of the Maldives Narcotics Act, the import or export of a controlled substance constitutes a major criminal offence. A conviction carries a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment and a fine ranging from MVR 100,000 to MVR 10 million.