HRCM Confirms Investigation into Deaths of Two Inmates

The Human Rights Commission of the Maldives (HRCM) has confirmed that it is investigating the deaths of two inmates who died while serving sentences under the Maldives Correctional Service.

Talking to MV+, an HRCM official said the Commission’s Rapid Response Team attends all custodial deaths without exception and has done so in these two cases. The official said the Commission has obtained preliminary information and is conducting investigations into both deaths. Necessary action will be taken upon completion of the inquiries where warranted, the Commission added.

Police on Monday confirmed that they had also launched investigations into the deaths, which were reported on 2 February.

The deceased were identified as Hassan Niyaz, 45, from Dhiggaagasdhoshuge, S. Hithadhoo, and Ibrahim Suhail, 53, listed under Dhafthar No: DR439.

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

Suhail died at Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) while undergoing treatment for pneumonia. The Maldives Correctional Service stated that he passed away on 2 February, one week after being admitted to IGMH due to a deterioration in his health. He had developed pneumonia during treatment and had been under medical care following a stroke he suffered last year.

Police said autopsies will be conducted on both individuals as part of the investigation, with arrangements being made to transport the bodies abroad for examination.

The deaths have drawn public attention after images circulated on social media allegedly showing injuries on Niyaz’s body prior to his death.