Sports host Naappe, suspect in child exploitation case, released on health grounds

Nafiu Rasheed (Naappe). (Photo/Facebook/Nafiu Rasheed)

Popular television presenter and sports host Nafiu ‘Naappe’ Rasheed, who was arrested with three others last year from a Male’ apartment on suspicion of child exploitation, has been granted conditional release from detention based on health grounds.

Naappe, most well-known for hosting the annual Baibalaa tournament, was one of four people arrested in a raid on an apartment in Henveiru district on October 6, 2025. The others arrested in the case were:

Ibrahim Shinan Ahmed, H. Finikuri, K. Male’
Luhan Saeed, Paris, GDh. Vaadhoo
Ali Ashraf, M. Ethumaa, K. Male’

Combined photos of (from L-R) Ibrahim Shinan Ahmed, 33, H. Finikuri, K. Male’; Nafiu Rasheed, 39, Silver Star, V. Rakeedhoo; Luhan Saeed, 41, Paris, GDh. Vaadhoo; and Ali Ashraf, 35, M. Ethumaa, K. Male’. (Photo/Maldives Police Service)

According to the police, the victims in the case were two girls aged 17, a boy aged 16, and another aged 17. However, the police did not disclose any details, including the nature of the exploitation, or if the victims were also found at the scene.

The police said at the time that they found a rubber packet narcotics during the raid, and that all four suspects came tested positive for drugs.

A spokesperson from the Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) told Sun on Wednesday that Nappe’s lawyers had filed with the Criminal Court for a review of his remand citing a serious condition.

The spokesperson said the court granted him conditional release based on his health condition.

However, exact nature of his health condition or the date on which he was released is unclear.

Meanwhile, a police spokesperson confirmed that the police have completed the investigation into the case, and have asked the PGO to file charges.