Maldives Police Service has opened an investigation into a video circulating on social media that appears to show a same-sex wedding ceremony at a resort.
Police said the incident is illegal and contrary to Maldivian law, Islamic principles, and social norms. They urged resorts, guesthouses and foreign employees not to allow or facilitate such events and warned that legal action would be taken against those involved.
Inner Maldives CEO Mohamed Firaq had earlier called for a government probe. In a social media post he wrote that foreign investment does not exempt resorts from Maldivian law and that everyone must respect the country’s regulations and cultural norms.
Footage shows two men holding hands in formal attire on a beach. Police confirmed they have been reviewing the matter since it first came to their attention.
Same-sex marriage is not recognised in the Maldives. Symbolic tourist weddings have long been held at resorts, but previous same-sex ceremonies that appeared on social media have also drawn criticism.
Firaq, who is also Honorary Consul of Seychelles, said resorts operated by foreign investors remain subject to Maldivian law. Many social media users supported an investigation, while others noted that similar events have occurred before and are difficult to prevent entirely.