Police in Malaysia awaits cooperation to record Yumnu's statement

A Maldives Police Service team is currently in Malaysia to obtain a statement from Hawwa Yumnu Rashid, who sustained injuries after falling from the rooftop of H. Mitazge on the 18th of last month, but is yet to receive cooperation from her family.

Yumnu remained unconscious following the incident and regained consciousness on the 4th of this month. Her sister disclosed in a video message Thursday night that Yumnu has since spoken to family members regarding the incident.

In response to public inquiries on whether a statement had been taken, police issued a statement Friday confirming the significance of Yumnu’s account to the ongoing investigation. The statement added that due to Yumnu’s medical condition and other factors, she has not been questioned so far.

"This is an ongoing investigation. As such, the investigation is making every effort to question those who should be questioned in connection with the case and confirm the information they provide to the police," the statement said.

Sources have confirmed to Atoll Times that a two-member police team, including a medical professional, is currently stationed in Kuala Lumpur for the purpose of recording Yumnu's statement. As of now, the team has not been able to proceed due to the lack of support from her family.

In the video message, Yumnu’s sister claimed that Yumnu did not fall on her own and alleged that another person was responsible. She said that Yumnu had previously visited the H. Fentenoige residence, where the incident occurred.

The sister stated that Yusuf Yassar Abdul Ghafoor, who resides at H. Minaz and is currently barred from leaving his residence, sent a location pin to Yumnu in response to her invitation. According to Yumnu, there were four other individuals present in the house, in addition to Raud Ahmed Zilal, who has been arrested in connection with the case.

"There are four others besides Yassar and Raud. So, I have come to tell you the truth about the lies being made by the Maldives Police Service and then the lies being made by other places," the sister said.

Police previously released CCTV footage showing Yumnu and Raud. At the time of the incident, only Raud was shown to be present with her at the location. Police initially stated that no one else was involved in the fall. However, Raud was later arrested for not cooperating with the investigation.

Court documents related to Raud’s arrest revealed that a dispute had occurred between him and Yumnu prior to her fall. He also tested positive for cannabis. The arrest warrant stated that Raud informed another individual that Yumnu's location was unknown and that she may have fallen.

On the night of the incident, Yumnu is reported to have attended a party at an apartment in H. Maandhooge Dhekunuge before proceeding to Fentenoige. Public criticism intensified after police did not disclose the name of Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen’s family residence and took no immediate action against those present at the party for refusing to provide urine samples for drug testing.

Protests demanding justice for Yumnu continue nightly in front of the Henveiru Sergeant Adam Haleem Criminal Investigation Department.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has appointed a special presidential commission to investigate the incident.