Authorities Investigate Death of Mother and Newborn 

Authorities have launched a criminal investigation into the death of a mother and her newborn following a caesarean delivery at Gaafu Alifu Atoll Villingili Hospital.

Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihusaan stated that the Maldives Police Service had been instructed to investigate any potential negligence and take appropriate legal action. Simultaneously, the Ministry of Health is conducting its own review to determine whether negligence played a role in the incident.

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The mother, identified as Shiuna Thaufeeq, was admitted to the hospital in the early hours of Tuesday morning while eight months pregnant, experiencing breathing difficulties. According to her family, she did not receive adequate treatment and passed away less than 24 hours later. They attribute her death, along with that of her newborn, to delays in transferring her to Malé City for further medical care.

Shiuna reportedly passed away on the runway at Kooddoo Airport while being transported to Malé. Her baby later died in Malé while receiving treatment.

The Health Ministry has expressed deep concern and sadness over the incident, stating in a social media post that the case is under review and that necessary action will be taken.

Family members and close friends have alleged that the hospital failed to provide adequate care from the moment Shiuna was admitted. A close friend told Mihaaru News that Shiuna’s breathing was severely laboured when she arrived at the hospital, requiring her to hold onto something for support.

As her condition deteriorated, the hospital’s resident gynaecologist decided to proceed with a caesarean section. However, as there was no paediatrician on the island, the medical team had to wait for a specialist to arrive from Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll Thinadhoo’s Regional Hospital.

Villingili Hospital has not issued a statement regarding the incident. Investigations by the authorities remain ongoing.