Bodies of Two Inmates Who Died in Custody Sent to India for Autopsy

The bodies of two inmates who died earlier this month while in prison custody have been taken to India for autopsy yesterday. 

Hassan Niyaz, 45, from Dhiggaagasdhoshuge, S. Hithadhoo, and Ibrahim Suhail, 53, listed under Dhafthar No: DR439, both died on 2 February while serving sentences under the Maldives Correctional Service.

Police said on Monday that they had launched investigations into the deaths shortly after they were reported.

According to police, Niyaz suffered a sudden medical emergency on the afternoon of 2 February and was transferred to Hulhumalé Hospital at 13:30. Doctors confirmed his death at 14:05 while he was receiving treatment.

Suhail died at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH), where he had been admitted a week earlier following a deterioration in his health. The Maldives Correctional Service said he developed pneumonia during treatment and had been under medical care after suffering a stroke last year.

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has also opened an investigation into custodial deaths. Speaking to MV+, an HRCM official said the Commission’s Rapid Response Team attends all custodial deaths without exception and had responded in both cases.

The official said the Commission has gathered preliminary information and is conducting investigations, adding that necessary action will be taken upon completion of the inquiries where warranted.

The deaths have attracted public attention after images circulated on social media allegedly showing injuries on Niyaz’s body prior to his death. Authorities have not publicly commented on the authenticity of the images.