Yumnu's family disputes police, requests official communication
Police said efforts were underway to gather information through Malaysian authorities, stating the family had not provided access for questioning.
The family of Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed, who sustained injuries after falling from the ninth floor of H. Fentenoiy onto the roof of the adjacent H. Mitaz on 18th of last month, has stated that police have not made an official request to question her since the incident.
Yumnu is currently receiving treatment in Malaysia.
On Thursday, police issued a statement claiming efforts were underway to gather information through Malaysian authorities, stating the family had not provided access for questioning. However, on Saturday, Yumnu’s family responded by sending a letter to Acting Police Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner Ismail Naveen.
In the letter, signed by Yumnu’s aunt Aishath Naisha Ahmed Rasheed, the family outlined the following concerns:
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The police press release issued on Thursday contradicts the facts surrounding the incident.
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The family believes police have provided the media with incorrect information.
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The family feels there is a presumption that Yumnu fell intentionally without the matter being properly investigated.
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The family lacks confidence in a fair investigation by the police.
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They will not obstruct an investigation that is conducted in compliance with Maldivian law.
The family said they have not received any formal request from the police to take a statement from Yumnu. They confirmed that if such a written request is made, they would respond accordingly. The letter also mentioned that Chief Inspector Dr Hassan Umair had spent about six hours with family members in Malaysia, contradicting the police’s earlier statement that the family was not cooperating.
According to the letter, no formal request for medical information had been made, despite the police stating they had not received updates on Yumnu’s condition. The family also stated that due to her injuries, Yumnu is currently not in a condition to give a statement.
The family reiterated that their priority is ensuring Yumnu receives necessary medical care and pursuing justice for her. They added that they will cooperate with any investigation carried out in accordance with the law.
In Thursday’s statement, police said two officers had been in Malaysia since Yumnu’s transfer and had attempted to contact the family multiple times without success. They stated that due to a lack of cooperation, they were now working with Malaysian authorities to gather information required for the investigation.
Police added that Yumnu had attended a party at a residence known as MA. Maandhooge Dhekunuge before arriving at the building where the incident occurred. The case drew further public attention when police did not initially disclose that the residence was linked to Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen’s family. No legal action has been taken against attendees of the party for reportedly refusing drug testing.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has since established a special presidential commission to investigate the incident.
