Telegram Channels Offering Escort Services Seized By Police

The Maldives Police Service has announced the arrest of two individuals, following an investigation into several Telegram channels offering escort services and other illegal activities.

In a statement published today, the police disclosed that they had been conducting an investigation into several Telegram channels, including ‘Jazeera Admin’, ‘Jazeera Girls’, and ‘Jazeera Link Habaru’. These channels, believed to have been active since April of last year, were reportedly facilitating a range of criminal activities including prostitution.

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The investigation led to the arrest of a 28-year-old Maldivian man and a 39-year-old Maldivian woman, both suspected of involvement in a series of serious crimes, including money laundering, drug trafficking, prostitution, encouraging prostitution, and the production and distribution of pornography.

Police revealed that the financial transactions of the suspects indicated earnings inconsistent with their reported sources of income, further raising suspicions of their involvement in illicit activities.

The arrests followed searches of four locations in an operation by the Maldives Cyber Police Centre, during which items pertinent to the case were seized. Efforts are currently underway to gather evidence from these seized items through forensic analysis.

Both suspects have been remanded in custody for a period of 30 days, following a decision by the Hulhumale’ Magistrate Court. 

The police have urged the public to refrain from engaging with social media channels that promote criminal behaviour, emphasising the importance of collective efforts in safeguarding the community.