Court Remands Abdulla Shahid in Custody for 30 Days Over Child Sexual Abuse Allegations

Former Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid, a leading contender for the opposition Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) presidential primary, has been remanded in police custody for 30 days following his arrest on child sexual abuse allegations, a police spokesperson confirmed today.

The remand ruling was issued after law enforcement authorities presented the 64-year-old veteran diplomat before the court to determine his detention status following his arrest late last night.

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Shahid was taken into custody under a judicial warrant at approximately 9:59 PM last night from his residence at the Rainbow Ocean Front apartment complex in Hulhumalé. Officers conducted a search of the premises before escorting him to the Hulhumalé Police Station, after which he was transferred to the Dhoonidhoo Custodial Centre.

Police confirmed the allegations involve a victim under the age of 18 but declined to release further operational details, citing the active nature of the investigation.

The arrest and subsequent 30-day detention come at a critical political juncture as Shahid actively campaigns to secure the MDP presidential nomination ahead of the 2028 elections. 

Shahid previously served as Speaker of the People’s Majlis, Foreign Minister, and President of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, and holds the nation’s highest civilian honor, the Order of the Distinguished Rule of Izzuddin.

Shortly before his arrest, as reports of an impending warrant circulated online, Shahid posted a statement on social media platform X unequivocally denying the accusations.

“The rumors being circulated as part of a political character assassination are completely baseless lies,” Shahid wrote, urging both the public and media outlets to refrain from publishing unsubstantiated claims.

Following the arrest, Shahid’s son, Yameen Shahid, also published a statement on X defending his father’s character and questioning the conduct of the authorities.

“I know my father’s character, his values and the kind of man he is. I know he would never do what he’s being accused of, and I stand by him completely,” Yameen wrote. “He has already condemned these allegations as a politically motivated attempt to destroy his reputation. Seeing him arrested today has been heartbreaking, and the way this has unfolded raises serious questions.”

“He deserves fairness, due process and every opportunity to defend himself. Our family stands firmly by him. We will not waver,” he added.