Maafushi Council has refuted the allegations made against the popular local tourism island as a “prostitution hub”.
Local media ‘Mihaaru’ published a detailed report that the crime rate and social issues had increased exponentially in Maafushi island since the introduction of local tourism on the island. The reports said that drug trafficking was widespread on the island, and the main reason for the increase in such cases was the development of local tourism on the island.
However, Maafushi Council released a statement in response to the report and stated that it was irresponsible to describe Maafushi as a center hub for prostitution. The press release signed by five members of the island council said no cases of prostitution have been reported in Maafushi so far. Moreover, the council also stated that the increase in drug cases has nothing to do with local tourism.
Furthermore, the council also accused that the report was politically motivated to attack the current administration. The statement also highlighted that local tourism can be carried out successfully without the sale of alcohol and pork and Maafushi is a prime example.