Commission to remain active until investigation concludes in Yumnu case

A regulation has been passed to ensure the Presidential Commission established to investigate the fall of 21-year-old Hawwa Yumnu Rasheed from a building remains active until it completes its work, without a specified deadline.

According to the regulation, which was officially gazetted by the commission, its five members are tasked with carrying out an independent, transparent, and credible investigation into the circumstances surrounding Yumnu’s fall.

In addition to conducting an inquiry, the commission is mandated to review the work done by state institutions so far, identify gaps or misconduct, and advise the President based on fair and just findings.

The regulation grants the commission significant powers, including the authority to bring in foreign experts or authorities to assist with the investigation. It can also request court orders to facilitate arrests and initiate criminal investigations where necessary.

If any other body has previously investigated the incident, the commission is authorized to access those findings, documents, and other related evidence.

Although the commission is expected to carry out its tasks as soon as possible, there is no fixed timeframe for completion. Its mandate will officially end once the specific responsibilities outlined in the resolution have been fulfilled.

The commission has launched a portal through which people can share information or findings related to the case.

Originally formed with three members, the commission was reconstituted after orthopedic surgeon Dr Mohamed Habeeb resigned. The current members are:

- Dr Mohamed Munavvar, former Attorney General, serving as Chair

- Brigadier General (Retired) Ahmed Mohamed

- Dr Moosa Murad

- Jabeen Mohamed

- Aminath Eenaa

Yumnu was found on the roof of H. Mitaaz after falling from H. Fentenoy. Raudh Ahmed Zilal, who was last seen with her, has since been arrested. According to police, the two had earlier visited Ma. Maandhooge Dhekunuge, H. Kashiveli, and then Fentenoy. Several others were also identified as having been with Yumnu and Raudh that night. These individuals include:

- Aishath Layaaly Iqbal (22)

- Izdhiyaan Mohamed Maumoon (28)

- Yoosuf Ahmed Akram (22)

- Yoosuf Yassar Abdul Ghafoor (28)

- Aminath Junaidha Jamsheed (24)

- Hussain Hamees Ali (28)

- Ijaz Jaiz (24)

While Yumnu is currently seeking treatment in Malaysia, National Social Protection Agency (NSPA) contributed USD 25,000 (approximately MVR 385,500), while the public raised over MVR 700,000 through TikTok Live to assist with her medical expenses.