PG orders hand over of recent sexual crimes documents

Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem has ordered the police to hand over documents related to the recent spate of sexual crime cases reported in the Maldives.

Speaking in a press conference today. PG Shameem said that he had decided to review the recent cases related to sexual abuse and the allegations in the cases reported.

“I have sent an order to hand over the documents of the cases to me. I will oversee how the investigation was conducted.” Said Shameem.

He said that he would plan how to address any issues or influence identified from the review. 

“I am ordering to send over the documents, to begin an evaluation. I am estimating that it could be done within two weeks and measures to address the issues could be undertaken.” Said Shameem.

Prosecutor General Hussain Shameem has ordered the police to hand over documents related to the recent spate of sexual crime cases reported in the Maldives.

Speaking in a press conference today. PG Shameem said that he had decided to review the recent cases related to sexual abuse and the allegations in the cases reported.

“I have sent an order to hand over the documents of the cases to me. I will oversee how the investigation was conducted.” Said Shameem.

He said that he would plan how to address any issues or influence identified from the review. 

“I am ordering to send over the documents, to begin an evaluation. I am estimating that it could be done within two weeks and measures to address the issues could be undertaken.” Said Shameem.

The PG also said that he would investigate complaints against institutions made for not investigating claims of criminal matters. He said that such complaints against state institutions have been increasing.

Speaking about the powers granted by law to the PG to order investigations of such matters, PG Shameem said that he would “utilize these powers if I am made aware.”

“If there is a complaint regarding a case lodged, which is not being investigated, the PG office has made arrangements to investigate these complaints. It is permitted by the law, and something the law is familiar with.” Said PG Shameem.

He also called on the public to lodge complaints of such instances.

Public concern have been pouring as of recently over the spate of sexual crimes reported across the country. Tensions have been especially high since the release of two individuals suspected of raping a foreign woman onboard a safari last Friday night. Despite the COVID-19 situation, a protest against sexual crimes and impunity was also held last Monday.