Tragic Discovery Shakes the Nation
Early Tuesday, the Maldives was struck by the harrowing news of the abduction and murder of a 13-year-old boy. The victim’s body was found stuffed in a suitcase, submerged in a restricted lagoon northeast of Hulhumalé Phase II. This grim discovery has left the nation in shock and mourning.
According to police reports, the boy, originally from Madaveli Island in the Gaaf Dhaal atoll, was first reported missing on Sunday. Around 2:30 am on Tuesday, investigators located his body during a search operation. An eyewitness had reportedly seen two men carrying a suitcase toward the restricted area on Sunday morning, further corroborating suspicions.
Suspects Apprehended
The Maldives Police Service (MPS) has arrested two suspects:
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- A 27-year-old man, identified as Ibrahim Zihan, from Landhoo Island in Noonu Atoll. Zihan has a prior criminal record, including a drug-related offense.
- A 17-year-old minor, reportedly an acquaintance of the victim.
The court has remanded Zihan in custody pending sentencing, while the minor suspect has been remanded for 15 days. Both suspects are alleged to have been friends of the young victim, raising additional concerns about the circumstances leading to this heinous crime.
Ongoing Investigation
Chief Inspector of Police Abdulla Rasheed, head of the Serious and Organized Crime Unit, addressed the media on Tuesday evening, providing updates on the investigation. He confirmed that significant progress had been made in gathering evidence, and the case is being diligently prepared for trial. The victim’s body has been sent abroad for a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.
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Police have urged anyone with information related to the case to contact them through designated helplines.
Community Response
The tragic incident has drawn widespread attention, with calls for swift and transparent justice. Advocating the Rights of Children (ARC) issued a statement condemning the violence and urging immediate action to protect children. ARC emphasized the need for thorough investigations and strong penalties for perpetrators.
Deputy Minister of Gender, Family, and Social Services, Fathmath Yumna, extended her condolences to the grieving family and highlighted the role of the Child and Family Protection Services in offering support. She also urged the public and media to respect the family’s privacy and avoid spreading unverified information about the case. Yumna reminded the public that sharing personal information about the child could lead to legal action under the Child Rights Protection Act.
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Call for Justice
The Maldives Police Service has assured the public that the case is being investigated with “utmost diligence.” Authorities are committed to uncovering all aspects of the crime and ensuring justice is served for the young victim. The case serves as a grim reminder of the need for heightened measures to protect vulnerable children and hold offenders accountable.
Conclusion
This tragic incident has left the Maldives reeling. While the investigation progresses, the case underscores the urgent need for community vigilance, robust child protection systems, and swift justice to deter such heinous crimes. The nation waits with bated breath as authorities work to bring closure to the victim’s family and hold the perpetrators accountable.
Source: Rajje.Mv
