Samih removed as head of Homicide and Death Investigation Unit, transferred to another department

Chief Inspector of Police Mohamed Samih has been removed from his position as head of the Homicide and Death Investigation Unit and reassigned to another department within Maldives Police Service.

Samih, who was on leave at the time of the transfer, has now been appointed to the department responsible for ensuring the quality and standards of police investigations.

Maldives Police Service has yet to issue an official statement regarding the decision.

Samih's removal comes amid growing public scrutiny and demands from the family of Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed, a 21-year-old woman who suffered major injuries after falling from a building in Male' on April 18.

Her family has publicly called for Samih’s dismissal, citing dissatisfaction with the police's handling of the investigation.

The investigation, led by Samih, has faced significant criticism over procedural delays and alleged negligence.

Police admitted to not producing several youths who were with Yumnu on the night of the incident for questioning. There were delays in taking their samples, and those involved had refused to cooperate without facing any police action.

In response to mounting concerns, a presidential commission has been established to investigate the circumstances of the incident. The Prosecutor General’s Office has also instructed the police to refer the case.

Public outrage further intensified after police delayed the arrest of Raudh Zilal, who was with Yumnu that night. Raudh was taken into custody only after widespread youth-led protests, demanding accountability and transparency in the investigation.