Former Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) President Abdulla Shahid, 64, has been arrested over allegations of sexually abusing a minor under the age of 18.

Shahid, who previously served as Minister of Foreign Affairs and President of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), was arrested at his residence at 21:59 tonight under a court order, the Maldives Police Service said in a statement. The authorities have not provided further details as of yet.

Shahid had earlier denied media reports about the allegations, describing them in a post on X as politically motivated falsehoods intended to damage his reputation. He also urged against spreading unsubstantiated claims.

The arrest comes shortly after Shahid, who has announced his intention to contest the MDP presidential primary, dismissed the reports.