Father arrested over sexual abuse of 13-year-old daughter

Police have arrested a 41-year-old Maldivian man suspected of sexually abusing his 13-year-old daughter, after residents gathered outside his home on Thursday to protest over the allegations.

Videos circulated in island community groups showed a crowd gathered outside the suspect’s residence and calling for action over the case.

Police officers arrived at the scene and removed the man from the residence before taking him to the police station at about 4.30pm.

Police confirmed that they received a report on Sunday concerning the alleged abuse of a 13-year-old girl in the Gaafu Alif and Gaafu Dhaalu atoll region.

According to police, the case involves allegations that a person in a position of trust subjected the child to sexual abuse as well as physical and psychological harm.

Police identified the suspect only as a 41-year-old Maldivian man and confirmed that he was arrested on Thursday. The investigation is continuing.

An island resident said the suspect had moved to the island after marrying a local woman several years ago and later transferred his official registration to the island.

The resident said the couple had recently divorced and the man had moved to a separate residence.

According to the resident, people on the island became aware of the alleged abuse after the child disclosed it to a teacher on Thursday.

The identity of the island and details that could identify the child have been withheld to protect the minor.