Maldives Police Service released a man suspected of sexually abusing his 12-year-old daughter. Reportedly, the abuse took place in the suburb of Vilimale'.
The man was taken into custody after an audio clip of the daughter describing actions of her allegedly inebriated father was circulated on social media. By Saturday evening, the video attracted a mob of residents demanding the man to be lynched.
After the mob vandalised Vilimale' Hospital, police urged the public to refrain from pursuing vigilante justice.
Police have since stated they are investigating the matter, however, local media Mihaaru reported that the man was never taken into custody.
Once the suspicions over whether the arrest was made were raised, public concern grew further following the girl's claims that her father threatened to murder her mother and sister should she fail to fall silent.
The girl states that as a result of her experiences, she is dealing with various psychological and physical complications.
A series of child sexual abuse cases have come to light in the aftermath of the sexual violence case involving a toddler, her grandfather and great-grandfather, with many victims and concerned parties coming forward.
The two men have since been arrested on child sexual abuse charges, while the victim's father was taken into custody over allegations of negligence.
While the aforementioned case sparked widespread outrage and harsh criticism against the government, public sentiment has remained focused on authorities’ negligence and their failure to take appropriate measures to curb sexual violence against children.
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