President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has ratified the Third Amendment to the Drugs Act, bringing major changes to penalties, regulation, and enforcement.
The law now regulates new drug substances and creates new offences.It strengthens treatment programs and revises Drug Court procedures.Parliament passed the amendment on December 3.
Penalties for trafficking Schedule 1 drugs now rise to 20 years in prison and fines up to MVR 7.5 million.
The death penalty may be applied in cases involving large quantities, with a unanimous Supreme Court decision required.
Offences carrying life imprisonment or the death penalty cannot receive clemency or plea deals.
The amendment also criminalises financing the drug trade and allows police to seize vehicles and close premises used for drug activity.
The law will take effect three months after publication.
