President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has ordered immediate reforms within the Maldives Police Service and Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) following a Presidential Commission’s findings into the April 18 incident involving Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed. The commission, convened in response to prolonged public concern and youth-led demonstrations known as “Dhuleh Nukuraanan”, confirmed procedural lapses—but no foul play—in the fall from the ninth floor of Henveiru’s Fentenoy building.
The commission identified significant police shortcomings: delayed arrival of the investigating officer, incomplete scene processing, absence of forensic examination on the rooftop of H. Mitaaz, and failure to secure the crime scene perimeter. As a result, President Muizzu instructed the Ministry of Homeland Security and Technology to immediately revise police investigative Standard Operating Procedures, roll out targeted training for officers, and pursue disciplinary action against individuals found negligent. A further inquiry has been ordered into the role of Raud Ahmed Zilal’s brother, Daudh Ahmed—who the report found lied during proceedings and held government office as Under‑Secretary for Digital Strategy of President’s Office—for failing to report timely.
In parallel, the Ministry of Health has been tasked with strengthening administrative protocols at IGMH and its Family Protection Unit (FPU). The commission report highlighted a refusal by FPU staff to assess Yumnu for sexual assault following her admission to the ICU—ignoring established SOPs—despite doctors being capable of conducting evidence collection in their absence. It also called for mandatory documentation of visible injuries, forensic swabs, and photography in cases of suspected assault.
These measures follow intense public scrutiny, including nightly protests since 24 April demanding a transparent investigation, accountability, and apologies from key officials. Demonstrators have listed demands including resignations of the Police Commissioner, Ministers Ali Ihusaan and former President’s Office Under‑Secretary Daudh Zilal . Two protest organisers were arrested on 1 May but later released, with youth groups—and political parties like the MDP—pressuring for justice.
On 18 June the commission’s final report concluded that Yumnu’s fall was likely accidental, not intentional . Nonetheless, its findings underscore deep institutional weaknesses. President Muizzu’s directives aim to tighten investigative rigor, enhance medical response to assault victims, and hold government staff accountable.
Next steps include rolling out updated police SOPs, conducting disciplinary reviews, and auditing FPU procedures at IGMH. The investigation into Daudh Ahmed’s conduct remains active. These reforms mark a pivotal moment for restoring public trust in the Maldives’ justice and healthcare systems after one of its most contentious cases this year.
