Police have urged the public to report cases of child sexual abuse without delay, warning that late reporting continues to obstruct investigations.
Despite the Maldives having a high incidence of child sexual abuse, authorities say many cases remain underreported, and those that do reach police often come long after the abuse has occurred.
Speaking at a press conference at Iskandhar Barracks on Tuesday, Superintendent Mohamed Shareef, head of the Crime Against Children Department, said reports of child sexual abuse are increasing, but delays in filing complaints remain a major challenge.
“Our appeal is that as soon as you come to know of any such case, please report it to us immediately, because we are also taking action before it is too late,” he said.
Shareef said police are conducting targeted operations to curb child grooming, following intelligence shared from abroad. Ten grooming cases are currently under investigation, he added.
Superintendent Mohamed Shareef, head of the Police Crime Against Children Department speaking at a press conference held at Iskandhar Barracks, December 30, 2025. (Photo/Maldives Police)
He also confirmed that a recent police operation led to the arrest of a Maldivian man in connection with a similar case, though further details were not disclosed.
Shareef noted that delays are not limited to child sexual abuse cases. Domestic violence and blackmail complaints are also frequently reported late, and some are withdrawn after filing.
“A lot of people come to file complaints only after being blackmailed repeatedly. What we know is that these situations don’t happen overnight. So I urge everyone to report early, that is what leads to results,” he said.
According to police statistics, 266 cases of sexual offences have been reported so far this year. Police also recorded 298 cases of domestic violence.