Action will be taken against state employees found negligent in ensuring safety of children: President

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has assured the administration will take appropriate measures against negligence from state institutions tasked with ensuring the security and protection of children. The president made the statement while speaking at a function held by the ruling Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) in Guraidhoo, Kaafu Atoll.

Speaking at the function, President Solih expressed shock and sadness over the case involving rape and abuse of a toddler by members of her family in a southern island of Maldives. The president said such cases are the result of years of negligence, adding immediate measures will be taken to prevent such cases in the future. Speaking in this regard, he said appropriate measures will be taken against state institutions and employees who are found negligent in fulfilling their responsibility towards the security and protection of children.

Following the report of the sexual abuse of a toddler last week, the administration has stepped up efforts to identify victims of abuse and arresting perpetrators. The case has also drawn public outrage, with several people condemning the negligence of state institutions in addressing cases involving sexual abuse of children.