Parliament seeks probe into police negligence in Faisal’s suicide attempt

A complaint has been filed with the parliament's committee on security services (241 Committee) to investigate whether there was any negligence on the part of the police in Faisal Abubakr’s suicide attempt after he was detained for allegedly killing his wife in HDh. Nolhivaram on Saturday.

Faisal Abubakr, 32, Rosyvila/ADh.Fenfushi, was detained at the police station in Kulhudhuffushi for 15 days following a court order. Found hanged in his cell, he was taken to Kulhudhuffushi Hospital for treatment at around 11:15 p.m. and is currently on ventilator support.

Maduvvari MP Adam Shareef Umar had submitted a complaint to the 241 committee to investigate whether there was any negligence on the part of the police in the man’s suicide attempt.

In a letter addressed to Speaker Mohamed Nasheed, Adam Shareef stated that it is the responsibility of the police to take care of those arrested for crimes.

The letter referred to the incident in which Faisal Abubakr tried to commit suicide in police custody and pointed out that the police's lack of knowledge could be seen as gross negligence in the case.

"Especially in view of his criminal record and the facts of the allegations, it is clear that appropriate action has not been taken against the accused," the letter read.

"And this will reduce people's faith in the accountability of our police service. It will hamper justice for the murder victim's family."

The letter sought an inquiry through the 241 committee to find out whether there was any negligence on the part of the police in the suicide attempt while in police custody and whether such incidents could occur in the future, and what steps are taken to prevent it.

Faisal is being treated on a ventilator at Kulhudhuffushi Hospital and a reliable source has confirmed to Atoll Times that the doctors have given up hope in his recovery.

Faisal’s wife Nishama Mohammed, 28, was found dead in the room of the couple's residence when family members went and checked, not having heard from her for a long time. There were suspicions cast that Faisal had killed Nishama as there were physical signs of torture on her. 

When Nishama was found dead, Faisal left the island saying he wanted to see a doctor. When he was accused, Faisal personally went to Kulhudhuffushi police station and surrendered.

Nishama's family members, neighbours and some villagers claim that Faisal had always physically abused Nishama.