Police Arrest Suspect in Sexual Assault of Woman and Children in Southern Maldives

A man has been arrested on suspicion of sexually assaulting a woman and exploiting children in an island under the Upper South Police Division, police said Wednesday. The case was reported on October 20, involving a 22-year-old woman. Authorities noted that the investigation has also uncovered instances of child sexual exploitation, prompting a serious inquiry. A police spokesperson stated that so far one individual has been taken into custody in connection with the allegations. The investigation is ongoing, with special priority given due to the involvement of minors. The Maldives Police Service continues to handle such cases with heightened urgency, particularly when children are victims. Further details have not been released as the probe progresses.