Former Maldivian Foreign Minister and former President of the United Nations General Assembly Abdulla Shahid has been arrested over allegations of sexually abusing a minor girl.

The Maldives Police Service confirmed Shahid’s arrest, stating that he was taken into custody under a court order in connection with allegations of sexual abuse involving an underage girl. Police did not disclose further details of the case.

The arrest has drawn significant public attention, although authorities have not publicly confirmed reports circulating about the alleged victim’s relationship to Shahid. The identity and privacy of the minor have not been disclosed.

Shahid’s arrest comes days after he faced criticism on social media over his appointment of former Tourism Minister Ali Waheed as Chief of Staff for his campaign to secure the MDP presidential ticket.

Waheed was previously arrested over allegations of sexually assaulting members of staff during his tenure as Tourism Minister, allegations he has denied.

Shahid is currently campaigning for the Maldivian Democratic Party’s presidential ticket. The latest development comes amid growing scrutiny of his campaign and political activities.

The police have not released further information regarding the investigation or indicated whether additional legal proceedings have taken place.