American National Remanded Over Alleged Ammunition Smuggling Attempt

A 36-year-old American national has been arrested and remanded in custody for 10 days following the discovery of a magazine containing ammunition in his luggage at Velana International Airport.

Maldives Police identified the suspect as Cobol Britain Tyler, who arrived in the Maldives on August 24, 2024.

According to police, authorities discovered a magazine containing ammunition during a search of the passenger’s luggage at the airport. He was subsequently taken into custody under a court warrant in connection with the suspected attempt to smuggle ammunition into the country by air.

Tyler was produced before court on August 25, 2024, to determine his detention status. The court subsequently ordered that he be remanded in custody for 10 days.

Police have not disclosed further details regarding the type or quantity of ammunition allegedly found, or the circumstances surrounding its attempted entry into the Maldives.

The Maldives maintains strict controls on the importation and possession of firearms, ammunition and related items, with such materials subject to restrictions under the country’s laws.

Police said the investigation into the case is ongoing.