Afrasheem

The Police have said that the murder of the late Dr Afrasheem Ali was premeditated and carried out very differently from other murders in Maldives.

Superintendent of Police Mohamed Riyaz said at a press conference held today that questions are being raised about the speed of the investigation and the limited information revealed by Police to the media.

“This case is extremely different from other murder cases in Maldives so far. Investigations have also revealed that considering the type of crime and how it was carried out, the case is extremely serious,” he said.

Riyaz said that in most cases, suspects are arrested at the crime scene, which makes the investigation process much easier. Also, it would be possible to expedite the investigation if suspects cooperate or confess to the crime.

“Our aim isn’t to rush the investigation; rather, our aim is to conduct a comprehensive investigation and bring those involved to justice,” he said.

Riyaz said that 200 items have been collected as evidence, including CCTV footage and phone calls. Information is also being collected from people who Afrasheem spoke with on the night of his murder.

He informed that assistance is being received from Singapore Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on investigating the forensic evidence.

Riyaz said that five people remain under arrest for this crime. Police have not disclosed any information on the suspects.

Mariyam Naifa, who was also arrested under suspicion of involvement in this crime, was released on 18 October following a Criminal Court order.

Dr Afrasheem was found murdered near his residence, H. Funvilu.

About 80 Police officers are currently involved in the investigation of this murder.

Police have also offered MVR500,000 for anyone who provides substantive evidence on this crime that can lead to a prosecution, and assured to provide protection to that person.