No evidence of sexual assault in Vifaag’s death, police say
Officials disclosed that Vifaag, 25 years, had been receiving treatment for mental illness, but no evidence of sexual assault has emerged in their findings.
The Maldives police today provided an update on the investigation into the tragic death of Vifaag Ibrahim Adnaan, a young woman who fell from a nine-story building in August. During a press conference, officials disclosed that Vifaag, 25 years, had been receiving treatment for mental illness, but no evidence of sexual assault has emerged in their findings.
Vifaag's case gained public attention after Channel 13 broadcast a report alleging that she had been sexually assaulted by her stepfather, Ahmed Nazim, who serves as the Vice President of Parliament. The police responded to these allegations in today’s press conference, which was held at Iskandhar Koshi, clarifying key points from their investigation and raising concerns about the report’s credibility.
Chief Superintendent of Police Hassan Shifau shared details about Vifaag’s history of mental health struggles, which began during her school years. He stated that:
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Vifaag was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder (BPD).
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While living in the UK, she received regular treatment and therapy sessions.
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Her family brought her back to the Maldives at her mother’s request following a troubling video call from Vifaag. Her father traveled to the UK to bring her home.
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In the Maldives, Vifaag continued to receive therapy at Hulhumale’ Hospital.
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Mental health medication was found on her desk at the scene of her fall.
Addressing the allegations of sexual assault, Shifau stated that the police had found no evidence to support these claims during their investigation:
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No reference to sexual assault or abuse was found in Vifaag's medical records or psychiatric reports.
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Police confirmed that Vifaag was a virgin at the time of her death.
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Her father, when interviewed, did not mention any history of abuse or assault.
"We have thoroughly reviewed her medical documents, and there is no reference to any such incident in her treatment history," said Shifau.
Shifau also disclosed that the police had interviewed Vifaag’s family members and other residents of the building where the incident occurred. Vifaag lived with her mother and stepfather in the apartment building.
When asked whether Vifaag’s stepfather, Ahmed Nazim, had been specifically questioned regarding the allegations raised by Channel 13, Shifau said:
“I cannot confirm if the exact question about sexual assault was asked. However, he did provide us with a very detailed statement as part of our investigation.”
The police reassured the public that multiple individuals connected to the case, including residents from all apartments in the building, had been questioned.
During the press briefing, Shifau expressed concerns about the allegations aired by Channel 13, emphasizing that the report lacked corroborating evidence. The police urged caution in spreading misinformation that could harm the grieving family and interfere with the investigation.
Authorities are continuing their inquiries into Vifaag’s tragic death and will provide further updates as more details emerge. However, for now, police have found no basis for the allegations of sexual assault.
