Investigation against Nazim Sattar still incomplete, no action taken

More than a week after Maldives Police Service began investigating a leaked video that allegedly shows Nazim Sattar, a prominent lawyer and younger brother of Parliament Speaker, former President Mohamed Nasheed, engaging in sexual acts with another man – the investigation still remains incomplete with no action being taken against him.

The video was leaked on social media on June 24 – which shows two men engaging in sexual relations. Many allege that one of the men in the video is Nazim Sattar. Nevertheless, Nazim denies the allegations. The leaked is unclear, therewith difficult to positively identify who is shown.

Whilst more than a week has passed the Police confirmed that they were investigating the case – a Police Spokesperson told Sun on Monday that the investigation was still ongoing. The Spokesperson also said an additional “update” cannot be disclosed at the moment.

The general public has strongly criticized the Police over their failure to arrest Nazim Sattar.

Police first confirmed they were investigating the leaked video on June 24. On the same day, Nazim Sattar was summoned and questioned by the Police. He was barred from travelling overseas the next day.

During an earlier statement regarding the case, Police said that they will take necessary actions in the course of their investigation.

Police also said that they are investigating a blackmail case involving Nazim Sattar that had been filed with the authority by several people. 

At a press conference held on June 27, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mohamed Riyaz said that an increase in similar cases was brought to the attention of police in late March.

“We had been carrying out investigative work pertaining to these cases using the necessary means to investigate cases of this nature,” he added.

Pointing out such videos were being leaked even at present, ACP Riyaz said there are people leaking the videos, hiding behind curtains.  

“In connection to this case, we have identified some suspects involved in the videos. The investigation against them is underway,” he had said.

Speaking further, ACP Riyaz said that police were also investigating cases pertaining to same-gender sexual relations apart from the leaked videos.

ACP Riyaz said that investigation in such a case can only proceed with cooperation from the victim.

He also gave assurance that the investigation will not be obstructed although high-profile individuals are involved in the case.

Videos and photos of at least three high-profile individuals engaging in sexual relations were leaked on social media in June.

The first was a video which allegedly shows Ahmed Nazim Abdul Sattar, a prominent lawyer and the younger brother of Parliament speaker, former president Mohamed Nasheed, engaging in sexual relations with a Bangladeshi man.

The second was a photo which allegedly shows South Henveiru MP Hussain Shaheem (Andhun Hussain) naked on a bed with a man and a woman.

The fourth shows  former journalist Ahmed Naseer engaging in sexual activities with another man.