Flu cases reported in December dropped to 28,619 cases from 32,859 in November. The figure was also down from 30,590 in December 2024, according to Health Protection Agency data. However, dengue infections rose sharply to 413 cases last month, up from 382 in November, and significantly higher than 150 cases during the same period in the previous year, prompting HPA to urge heightened preventive measures against mosquito-borne illnesses.
A British couple died in a scuba diving accident while on holiday in the Maldives. It was the retired couple's 60th visit to the Ellaidhoo resort during the past 17 years. Elaine Richmond, 70, and her husband Malcolm, 71, passed away in late December.
The Criminal Court sentenced Ahmed Yasih from Noonu Kendhikulhudhoo to 100 years in prison with a fine of MVR 400,000 (US$ 26,000) for cultivating cannabis plants and drug trafficking. He was charged after police discovered seven cannabis plants at his residence in Malé's Giriminee house in May 2023 following a public tip-off, along with other narcotics. Yasih was handed four 25-year sentences for each of four counts of producing narcotics, general drug trafficking, and trafficking diamorphine and cannabis, to be served consecutively, with the fine payable within 12 months.
The central bank issued notices to several resorts for failing to exchange the mandated 20 percent of monthly foreign currency income or US$ 500 per tourist as required under the Foreign Exchange Act, Adhadhu reported. Some resorts have been exchanging below the required amount after requesting exemptions, which sources say violates regulations since businesses cannot reduce payments while awaiting MMA approval. The MMA can impose fines of 0.5 percent of the monthly amount due for non-compliance, though officials confirmed $362 million had been exchanged by June 2025.
The Elections Commission opened registration for visually impaired voters who wish to use voting templates independently in the April 4 local council elections. The special voting template, introduced during the 2023 presidential election, allows visually impaired voters to mark ballots without assistance, with training programs available across Malé and the atolls.
The information ministry announced the disbursement of MVR 27,295,532 to 40 media outlets.
Bangladesh reversed its temporary suspension of on-arrival visas that was introduced ahead of parliamentary elections, the foreign ministry confirmed.
A 1,200 kilowatt generator set brought to the Vilimalé power station in preparation for the upcoming peak season has been commissioned and is now in use, STELCO said.
