News Desk
Adam Ahuthar, a detainee found dead in his cell at Dhoonidhoo on September 2, has prompted demands for an independent investigation into the circumstances of his death. Police reports indicate that Ahuthar was found hanging in his cell at 19:02. He was taken to the Dhoonidhoo health post, and 23 minutes later, transported to IGM Hospital.
Home Minister Ali Ihsan, during an informal briefing with journalists at Iskander Police Barracks, presented CCTV footage to clarify the events surrounding Ahuthar’s death. The footage, also shared with Ahuthar’s family, shows him seated on the edge of his cell, with a blue mat and a pillow visible. He is seen turning away from the camera, wearing a T-shirt and shorts. The footage captures the moments leading up to his death.
Ahuthar had been in police custody following an altercation in which he held a knife to his girlfriend’s neck. This incident, which led to his imprisonment, involved the police using a baton to subdue him, resulting in head injuries that required hospital treatment.
Although police have labeled Ahuthar’s death a suicide, his family contests this and opposes the planned autopsy, which is mandated by the Home Ministry for all deaths in custody. Transparency Maldives has called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances of his death, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability.
