Irufan in CCTV footage of Fathir's murder, witness says

Irufan Rushdhee, accused of entering the residence of Fathir Mohamed Ali in 2016 with the intent to kill, was identified by a police officer analysing CCTV footage from the scene of the murder, in a hearing held at the Criminal Court on Tuesday,

The hearing was held in the trial on the brutal gang fight that resulted in the death of 14-year-old Fathir.

Fathir was killed on June 3, 2016 as a revenge for the murder of Ahmed Irushan Hilmee, 14, from Ranfaruge, K. Kaashidhoo. Irufan was arrested in October 2019 after a wanted notice was issued by the police and the Death Commission.

The charges against Irufan include aiding and abetting intentional homicide using a sharp object or dangerous weapon.

Tuesday's proceedings saw the long-awaited testimony of a police officer who prepared a detailed analysis of the CCTV footage that captured the events of the night. 

During the hearing, a clip from the footage was shown, depicting the moments leading up to Fathir's attack. The recording shows Fathir entering his home at approximately 9:46pm, followed by two men intent on harming him. Notably, one of the attackers was identified as wearing a black t-shirt, a description matching Irufan.

The officer testified that the footage exhibited distinct physical characteristics of the attacker, including body shape, eyebrow shape, and hairline, which were consistent with Irufan's appearance from his mugshot.

The prosecution aimed to demonstrate that the evidence was compelling enough to implicate Irufan in the attack, asserting that the CCTV footage directly links him to the crime scene.

However, one of the two scheduled witnesses for the day was unable to appear, prompting the court to adjourn.

Criminal Court Judge Ibrahim Zihunee announced that the next hearing is set for September 26, during which the court will hear the testimonies of three confidential witnesses.