Naeema Murder Case: Suspect Released on Strict Conditions Due to Medical Concerns

The Prosecutor General’s Office has authorised the conditional release of one of the suspects accused in the 2023 murder of Naeema Moosa in Noonu Manadhoo, citing medical concerns.

Hassan Fawaz, 21, was released from custody yesterday, following a request from his family. He is among three individuals charged in connection with the April 2023 case, alongside Abdul Waahid Rifaas and Azham Abdul Shukoor of the same island. Naeema was found fatally stabbed inside her residence.

In a statement, the Prosecutor General’s Office said that the decision was made as a special measure to safeguard Fawaz’s right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution. While the office did not disclose details of his condition, local media reports indicate that Fawaz is a thalassaemia patient who had been facing difficulties receiving necessary blood transfusions while in custody, amid reported nationwide blood shortages.

Fawaz’s release is subject to a series of strict conditions imposed by the court. These include:

1. submitting medical treatment documents to the Prosecutor’s Office and the Criminal Court every 15 days, 
2. refraining from any unlawful activity, 
3. attending all scheduled court hearings punctually,
4. prohibited from leaving his residence between 6 pm and 8 am, except for medical treatment, 
5. must report daily to the nearest police station between 8 am and 12 noon unless attending medical appointments.
6. ban on leaving the city
7. Ban on any form of contact with witnesses or individuals expected to testify in the case.

Authorities have stated that both the Maldives Correctional Service and the police will monitor Fawaz’s compliance with these conditions. The Prosecutor General’s Office warned that any breach would result in a request to the court to remand him back into custody.