Charges have been raised on a man arrested and remanded under accusations of raping a minor with special needs.

The Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) has revealed that they forwarded the charges to the Criminal Court on Wednesday.

Ibrahim Shafiu, 37, native to Feeali island in Faafu atoll, is charged with committing sexual offenses against a minor, while remaining in a reliable position.

He stands to face a prison sentence between 15 – 18 years should the charges against him, be proven.

Maldives Police Service (MPS) arrested the alleged child sex offender on July 2.

On July 4, the Magistrate Court of Nilandhoo island in Faafu atoll remanded Shafiu for the remainder of his trial.

The order issued by the Nilandhoo Magistrate Court reads that the man must be remanded at a custodial prison until the end of his trial, as he has been deemed a risk to the society and might attempt to influence those involved in the case and eradicate evidence should he be released, as the case involves a 15-year-old child with special needs.

As such, the court ordered for him to be remanded until a verdict is reached in the trial.

There has been a surge in sexual assault cases of recent, despite the country being locked in a battle against the global Covid-19 pandemic.

Stressing that cases of child abuse and child exploitation, including children with special needs and disabilities is surging, police earlier urged parents and guardians of children to be more mindful.

Police urged media outlets to ensure children’s sanctity is protected, when sharing publications in connection to such cases.

Since the beginning of the year individuals voicing against the heinous crime and calling for justice have notably increased after the case of a toddler at the mere age of two fell victim to sexual abuse by her family members made the spotlight.