A man who operated a network of Telegram channels promoting prostitution and drug trafficking under the name “Jazeera” has been sentenced to four years in prison.
The case was prosecuted by the state against Ibrahim Rasheed (DR. 12966), who was found guilty of facilitating criminal activities through five Telegram pages: 'Jazeera Admin', 'Jazeera Girls', 'Jazeera Escort', 'Jazeera Scam Alert', and 'Jazeera Links'.
Ibrahim Rasheed faced four charges:
- Distributing obscene content
- Money laundering
- Assisting in prostitution in the Maldives
- Knowingly using income generated from prostitution
The court found him guilty on two counts: money laundering and assisting in prostitution.
He was sentenced to:
- One year and six months for assisting in prostitution
- Two years and six months for money laundering
Additionally, he was ordered to pay a fine of MVR 462,637.61.
Two other individuals—Nishani Ali of Redinge, Th. Veymandoo, and Aisaru Naseem of Velige, GDh. Ratafandoo—were also charged in connection with the case.
The sentencing marks one of the strongest legal responses in the Maldives to the use of encrypted platforms for organised crime.