Police have arrested a 41-year-old man in a southern atoll following public protests over allegations that he sexually, physically, and mentally abused his 13-year-old daughter.
A police van - Photo: Police Media
MALÉ: Police have arrested a 41-year-old Maldivian man accused of sexually, physically, and mentally abusing his 13-year-old daughter on an island within the Gaafu Atoll region.
The arrest took place around 4:30 PM after a crowd of local residents gathered outside the suspect’s residence to voice outrage over the allegations. Officers responded to the scene, safely escorted the suspect out of the house, and transported him directly to the local police station.
Island residents reported that the suspect had lived on the island for many years after marrying a local woman and had recently moved to a separate home following their divorce. According to local sources, the alleged abuse came to light after the young girl confided in a school teacher, prompting community members to demand immediate police action.
The Maldives Police Service confirmed that a formal case involving a person in a position of trust abusing a 13-year-old child was initially reported earlier in the week. Law enforcement authorities confirmed the suspect is currently in police custody as investigators proceed with further inquiries into the matter.