India’s Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) on Thursday asked citizens traveling to the Maldives to be extremely careful during their visit and cautioned them against carrying other people’s luggage. The report noted a significant rise in the number of foreign nationals, including Indians, in recent weeks and new anti-drug laws, which last month imposed the death penalty on people caught with a small amount of drugs.
Under the Maldives’ amended Drug Law, which officially came into effect in March 2026, the island nation has imposed strict penalties for drug-related offences, including the death penalty for anyone found to be in possession or import of more than 350 grams of cannabis, more than 250 grams of diamorphine, or more than 100 grams of any of the 139 Schedule 1 substances.
The agency also asked travelers to be careful at airports, seaports and crossing points, and to avoid dealing with unknown people requesting assistance in transporting goods.
“Recent legislative amendments to the Maldives Drug Law, effective from March 2026, provide for significantly enhanced penalties for drug-related offences, including life imprisonment and, in some cases involving large-scale trafficking, the death penalty, provided that it is confirmed by the competent court under Maldivian law. The amended law provides for more stringent penalties even in the case of possession of small quantities of prohibited substances,” the NCB said in a statement, adding that recent cases involving citizens had been reported. Foreigners, including Indian nationals, have been arrested in the Maldives for drug-related offences.
According to media reports and Maldives Police press releases, several foreign nationals, including Indians, have been arrested for drug smuggling into the Maldives this year. Three Indian nationals were reportedly arrested at Velana International Airport in April, and another Indian national was arrested for allegedly carrying 12 packets of hashish on March 31.
To be sure, imprisonment for ten years or more in India is only imposed when a person is caught with at least 20 kilograms of hashish.
The NCB warned that under the new legal framework, “ignorance of the law is no defence,” and any violation would lead to serious judicial consequences.
The Indian High Commission in Malé has also issued advisories urging Indian citizens to strictly adhere to local laws and regulations. The High Commission also shared its contact details for clarification before travel.
The National Central Bank asked all citizens traveling to the Maldives to be careful and not to carry any package, luggage or anything on behalf of others under any circumstances without fully verifying its contents. Exercise extreme caution at airports, ports and crossing points when approached by unknown persons requesting to transport goods. Maintain full control and supervision of personal effects at all times.
“Be aware that ignorance of the law is no defense, and any legal violations may result in severe penalties,” the agency said.
