Shahid arrested over child sexual harassment allegation

Former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdulla Shahid, who is seeking the party's presidential nomination for the next election, was arrested on Monday evening over an allegation of sexually harassing a child.

In a statement, Maldives Police Service confirmed that Shahid, 64, was arrested at around 9:59pm on Monday in connection with an allegation of sexual harassment involving a child. Police said the case is under investigation.

According to information received, Shahid was arrested under a court order in connection with an allegation that he sexually harassed a child while holding a position of trust.

Shahid, who previously served as Minister of Foreign Affairs, is among those seeking the MDP's presidential ticket for the next presidential election.

Further details of the allegation and the circumstances surrounding his arrest have not yet been disclosed.

The allegation has not been proven in court.