Pre-trial detention for accused rapist extended, one arrested for aiding and abetting escape

The pre-trial detention of a man who was arrested yesterday has been extended. He is accused of drugging and raping a 13-year-old minor.

The 27-year-old man was arrested yesterday. The incident occurred last Sunday on an island in the north of the Maldives.

Police said the court extended his detention by 30 days at the pre-trial detention hearing.

In addition, another 29-year-old man was arrested for helping the alleged rapist escape and evading arrest.

This person is also being held in custody for a period of 12 days, police said.