By Maldives Insight Staff

Malé, Maldives – A Maldivian woman has been arrested on suspicion of grooming, exploiting, and sexually abusing a minor, authorities have confirmed.

The individual taken into custody has been identified as Fathimath Reema, 35. She was apprehended on 29 December 2023 during an operation conducted jointly by the Police’s Family and Child Protection Department and Crime Intelligence.

Police stated that the victim of the alleged grooming and sexual abuse is a 15-year-old boy. Ms Reema’s current remand period is set to expire on 28 January 2024.