The Maldives Police Service has initiated an investigation into allegations of money laundering involving a foreign national who was detained at the airport with $81,000 in cash.

On Sunday, airport security arrested Shahmin Isalam Shakoor, a 32-year-old foreign national, as he attempted to leave the country. Shakoor was found with the cash concealed in a cornflakes box, which was uncovered during routine security screening.

Following his arrest, Shakoor was handed over to the police and charged with money laundering. He appeared before a local court, which has remanded him in judicial custody for 15 days while the investigation continues.

The case has drawn attention due to the significant amount of cash involved and the unusual method of concealment. The Maldives Police Service is actively working to uncover further details about the case and the origins of the funds in question.

This investigation highlights ongoing efforts by Maldivian authorities to combat financial crime and ensure the integrity of the country’s financial and security systems.