Police officer under investigation for sexual abuse of a child

The police have opened an investigation into an active police officer accused of the sexual abuse of a child.

According to a brief statement released by the police on Saturday, the suspect in the case holds a position of authority over the victim.

The case was reported to the police on June 1, added the agency in the statement.

The police officer is under criminal investigation by the Family and Child Protection Department, and under administrative review by the Professional Standards Command.

The police have not disclosed any additional details regarding the case.

Special Provisions Act to Deal with Child Sex Offenders, which declares special provisions to deal with child sex offenders at both investigative and trial stages, prescribes a prison sentence of 15 to 18 years, if the person who carried out the offense holds a position of authority over the victim.

Those with information regarding crimes against children are urged to call the Maldives Police Service’s Family and Child Protection Department at 3000600 or the Child Helpline 1412.