India's NCB Issues Travel Advisory for Maldives Amid Strict Anti-Drug Laws
NCB issues advisory for Indians travelling to Maldives over strict anti-drug laws
Hindustan Times
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India's Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) has issued a travel advisory for Indians visiting the Maldives, urging caution due to stringent anti-drug laws that include the death penalty for possession of narcotics. Travelers are warned against carrying others' baggage and must remain vigilant at transit points.
- 01NCB warns Indians traveling to the Maldives about strict anti-drug laws.
- 02New laws include the death penalty for possession of certain narcotics.
- 03Travelers are advised not to carry baggage for others.
- 04Recent arrests of foreign nationals, including Indians, for drug offenses.
- 05Ignorance of local laws will not be accepted as a defense.
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The Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) of India has issued a travel advisory for Indian nationals heading to the Maldives, emphasizing the need for extreme caution due to the island nation's stringent anti-drug laws. These laws, which took effect following amendments to the Maldives’ Drugs Act in March 2026, impose severe penalties, including the death penalty for possession of over 350 grams of cannabis or 250 grams of diamorphine. The NCB highlighted a recent increase in arrests of foreign nationals, including Indians, for drug-related offenses, with several incidents reported this year. Notably, three Indian nationals were arrested at Velana International Airport in April for allegedly smuggling drugs. The NCB cautioned travelers to avoid carrying any packages for others and to maintain control over their personal belongings at all times. The advisory stresses that ignorance of the law will not be accepted as a defense, and violations could lead to severe judicial consequences. The High Commission of India in Malé has also urged compliance with local laws and provided contact information for travelers needing clarification.
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Indian travelers to the Maldives must be aware of the severe legal consequences of drug-related offenses, which could lead to life-altering penalties.
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