NIC seeks prosecution of police over Zakiyya’s death without questioning them

National Integrity Commission (NIC) has asked the Prosecutor General’s Office to pursue charges against seven police officers over the death of Zakiyya Moosa in Noonu atoll Holhudhoo without first questioning them, it has been revealed.

Those named reportedly include the current police commissioner, Ismail Naveen, who was deputy commissioner at the time, assistant commissioner Mohamed Riyaz and chief superintendent Hassan Shifau, then head of the major crime department.

NIC has recommended charges including abuse of official authority, obstruction of justice, obstruction of state institutions and misuse of a corpse.

NIC president Gasim Abdul Kareem did not respond to questions from Mihaaru News and redirected inquiries to the commission’s media officer, who could not be reached.

Zakiyya was found dead near a storeroom by the kitchen of her home, her neck almost severed from the bones, according to witnesses. The death sparked suspicion among family members and residents, some of whom alleged foul play. Zakiyya had been receiving treatment for psychological issues.

Public anger grew after she was buried without an autopsy. Police later conducted a virtual autopsy, which concluded she had died from self-inflicted injuries.