Sexual assault on tourist: passport of the accused, seized

The passport of a man accused to be linked to the alleged sexual assault of a tourist in a local resort, has been seized.

The Maldives Police Service (MPS) revealed that the Criminal Court has issued an order, restraining the accused from leaving the country, effective June 22.

Accused in connection with the sexual assault of a tourist in the Ritz-Carlton Maldives Fari islands, is a 30-year-old Maldivian man.

The police institution received reports of the alleged rape of the tourist, who was vacationing in the resort located in Kaafu atoll, on June 11.

In a statement regarding the case, MPS on June 21 revealed that they are probing thoroughly the case of the tourist falling victim to sexual assault.

Highlighting that the authorities had responded to the incident promptly after receiving the information, MPS stated that forensic teams were deployed to the scene to gather crucial evidence.

MPS revealed that the necessary forensic samples were collected and initial statements were taken from the parties involved.

The victim, identified as a 26-year-old Chinese woman, was also provided with immediate medical assistance and support. The tourist is to have arrived in the Maldives on vacation, on June 6. The victim has since written to President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih as well as the former president and current Speaker of Parliament, Mohamed Nasheed, seeking justice. The letter has been circulating on social media as well.

Although no arrests have been made in connection with the case yet, the police institution has assured the public that all the necessary investigative actions are being taken to ensure a comprehensive examination of the case.

Stressing that they take reports of alleged sexual assault, with utmost seriousness and professionalism, MPS noted that they are currently awaiting the results of the forensic samples taken from both the victim and the individual in question.

Police investigators are following all lines of inquiry and conducting a diligent analysis of the evidence gathered and revealed that further updates will be provided with additional findings from the investigation.

Highlighting that the institution is committed to uphold the law, safeguarding the well-being of all individuals within their jurisdiction and ensuring justice is served, MPS assured that they will continue to work diligently to bring this investigation to a just resolution.

MPS also took the opportunity to express gratitude for the cooperation and understanding of the public and media, during the ongoing probe.