MP Ibrahim Urges Police to Investigate Harassment Against Women
3 އޯގަސްޓު 2026 | ހޯމަ 17:05Member of Parliament Ibrahim has formally requested the Maldives Police Service to investigate recent incidents of harassment targeting female employees at the Male' City Council and Maldives Customs Service. In a letter addressed to the authorities, the MP emphasized that such actions constitute criminal offenses under the Penal Code and urged the police to take proactive measures rather than waiting for formal complaints to be filed. The letter further highlighted that eradicating harassment against women is essential to ensuring a safe and secure professional working environment.
Member of Parliament for North Galolhu, Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu), addresses the floor during a session of the People's Majlis. | Majilis
Mohamed Ibrahim (Kudu), the Member of Parliament for North Galolhu, has sent a formal letter to Commissioner of Police Ali Shujau, requesting an investigation into the harassment and defamation of women in workplaces, mainstream media, and on social media platforms.
In a letter sent to the police on August 3, 2026, Member Ibrahim highlighted two incidents that occurred over the past 48 hours and requested a formal investigation into the matters.
The first incident highlighted by the member involved a female employee of the Male' City Council who was subjected to verbal abuse and harassment by a man while she was performing her official duties on the street. The second incident concerned a female Customs officer whose photograph was circulated on social media alongside baseless allegations. The member noted that these false accusations constitute a targeted campaign of harassment and defamation against the officer.
In the letter, the member highlighted that such actions constitute intimidation or harassment in a public space, which are defined as criminal offenses under Section 615 of the Penal Code of the Maldives. The member further stated that the failure to take action in such matters is perceived as a hindrance to the police in fulfilling their legal responsibilities.
Referring to Section 23(d) of the Criminal Procedure Act, the member stated that the police are empowered to initiate investigations on their own motion in cases where an offense is suspected or believed to have been committed. The member further emphasized that the police are not required to wait for a formal complaint from a specific party before launching an investigation into such matters.
Furthermore, the member stated that such harassment and defamatory acts against women pose a significant threat to the peace and safety of society. He emphasized that the failure to take action against such conduct creates a climate of fear for women in the workplace. The member also noted that the involvement of high-ranking state officials and political figures in such matters further exacerbates the seriousness of the issue.
Consequently, as ensuring the rights and safety of women is a fundamental duty of the police, a request has been made to treat these cases with the utmost seriousness and to conduct an expedited investigation.
