Police forwards safari sexual assault case to the PG again

Maldives Police Service has stated that the case regarding the sexual assault of a Kenyan woman on a safari docked at Hulhumale harbor was refiled with the Prosecutor General's Office.

According to a police media official, the case was sent to the PG Office after following up on the suggestions made by prosecutors to further strengthen the case. However, it is unclear how many individuals are being charged regarding the case.

The victim was apparently invited aboard the vessel by a friend. According to reports, she jumped overboard to escape the offenders who had tried to assault her. Police arrested two individuals regarding the case, however, they were later released on the same night. One of the individuals brought into police custody is the husband of MP Jeehaan, who is a relative of President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih. Police came under fire from the public as it was alleged that the individuals were released due to their connections with politicians from the ruling party.

The victim has subsequently left the Maldives before the investigation concluded. According to her, she had to flee the country due to fear for her safety.

Commenting about the case Minister of Home Affairs Imran Abdulla downplayed the seriousness of the case.