Maldives ex-foreign minister Shahid arrested over child abuse allegations

Abdulla Shahid, a prominent figure in Maldivian politics who held the position of foreign minister, has been arrested following allegations of child abuse, according to authorities in Male. The former diplomat's detention comes as part of an ongoing investigation into the matter.

Shahid, who has maintained a high profile in regional and international diplomatic circles, now faces serious criminal charges. The arrest underscores growing scrutiny of senior political figures in the Maldives amid broader concerns about accountability and rule of law in the Indian Ocean archipelago.

Details regarding the specific nature of the allegations and the scope of the investigation remain limited at this stage. Authorities have not released comprehensive information about the circumstances leading to the arrest or the expected timeline for proceedings.

The development is likely to draw significant attention both domestically and internationally, given Shahid's standing in Maldivian public life and his previous role representing the nation on the global stage. Legal proceedings are expected to follow standard judicial protocols in the Maldives.