The Maldives has issued an official clarification after media reports in the United Kingdom inaccurately described a man convicted of sexual assault as being Maldivian.

Sundaralingam Koodalingam, aged 36, was sentenced to four years in prison by Southwark Crown Court after being found guilty of sexually assaulting a well-known actress during a massage appointment in central London. The incident occurred on 29 March 2023 at Rupert Jade Thai Massage in Soho, where the victim was assaulted during what was expected to be a professional therapy session. Her identity remains protected under UK law.

During the trial, it was disclosed that Koodalingam moved to the United Kingdom in 2021 on a visa sponsored by a company based in the Cotswolds. Although some reports described him as being from the Maldives, his name does not follow Maldivian naming conventions, leading to questions about the accuracy of his reported nationality.

In response to the claims, the Maldives Immigration Department issued a statement clarifying that Koodalingam is not registered as a Maldivian citizen in any Government database or agency. Officials confirmed that he has no affiliation with the Maldivian Government and no connection to any Government institution or official capacity.

Authorities further urged the public to avoid disseminating unverified or misleading information, particularly in matters involving sensitive legal proceedings. They emphasised the importance of accuracy when referring to identity and nationality in public discourse.

Koodalingam, who denied the charges throughout the proceedings, was convicted by a jury of sexual assault and assault by penetration. He has been ordered to serve at least two-thirds of his custodial sentence before becoming eligible for release.