Shah

The family of Ibrahim Shah, husband of Ziyada Naeem, who died recently as result of suspected abuse, has said that Ziyada died due to pneumonia and kidney failure.

In a statement issued today, Shah’s family accused the media of spreading false stories based on Ziyada’s family’s suspicions, and defaming Shah.

The family said that Ziyada had never talked about Shah sexually abusing her and accused Ministry of Law and Gender of hiding the truth, despite being informed of Ziyada’s illnesses.

Police declined to comment on the matter saying they do not have to respond to statements issued by Ziyada’s or Shah’s family, and instead said that the case is categorised under sexual abuse and murder, and is under investigation.

Shah’s family also denied reports that Shah did not provide any financial support to Ziyada.

“For the past four years or so, Ibrahim Shah’s salary has been deposited to the account of the deceased. There are many people who can testify that the money was used by the deceased as she pleased. Although the couple’s house was not built to a good standard, Shah’s money was used to buy furniture for the house on more than one occasion,” read the family’s statement.

The family expressed sadness over Ziyada’s passing and said that Ziyada was close with Shah’s sister Aniza Hussain, and often shared details of her illness with her.

Shah has been arrested on suspicion of sexual abuse of Ziyada.