PG considers charges against police over Holhudhoo death probe
According to the NIC, the negligence may amount to misuse of official position or influence, obstruction of justice, and obstruction of law enforcement.
The Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) is assessing whether to file charges against the police for alleged negligence in the investigation into the death of Zakiyya Moosa, who was found dead with injuries on N. Holhudhoo almost a year ago.
Initial findings indicated that Zakiyya’s injuries were self-inflicted, with no evidence suggesting involvement of another person. However, her family has consistently alleged serious shortcomings in the police investigation.
The National Integrity Commission (NIC) has concluded that police negligence occurred during the inquiry. The PGO confirmed it is reviewing the NIC’s findings to determine if prosecution is warranted. Public Prosecutor and Media Officer Ahmed Shafeeu said the NIC would be asked to conduct further investigation into the matter.
According to the NIC, the negligence may amount to misuse of official position or influence, obstruction of justice, and obstruction of law enforcement or other state functions.
In April, dissatisfied with the police inquiry, Zakiyya’s family wrote to President Mohamed Muizzu requesting the formation of a separate commission to investigate the death. The letter expressed concerns over a lack of transparency and detail from the police, noting that this had left significant doubt over the process.
The concerns raised included:
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No confirmation on whether a 3D scan had been conducted for a virtual autopsy.
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Lack of disclosure of the scan date and the doctor responsible.
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Police initially did not intend to conduct an autopsy, and later did not explain how a virtual autopsy scan was carried out six months after the death.
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Allegations of domestic violence had not been investigated, with suspects neither questioned nor their phones seized or examined.
The case remains under review by the PGO.
