Police are investigating an Indian national, identified as “Master Durga Rao Guruji,” for offering “spiritual healing” services in the country, officials said on Tuesday.
The individual has been promoting himself on social media as a fortune-teller and healer of witchcraft, claiming to provide solutions to health and marital problems. Advertisements posted on a Facebook page under his name included a Maldivian phone number for appointments and indicated that he is currently in the Maldives.
Police said they are working with relevant authorities to take legal action. “Instead of sharing information about such uncultured and irreligious practices with each other, we believe it is important to bring them to the attention of the relevant authorities as soon as possible and take legal action,” police said.
The Maldives enforces strict laws against proselytisation. In 2023, the Islamic Ministry reported an incident involving a Hindu man who was allegedly attempting to convert Maldivians to the Hindu religion in the capital. In August last year, authorities detained and deported an Indian national who had been offering “spiritual guidance” sessions, citing violations of the Religious Unity Act and Immigration Act.
Police have not disclosed further details on the ongoing investigation.