The family of Zakiyya Moosa, 50, who was found dead on Noonu Holhudhoo island in September last year, has rejected the findings of a virtual autopsy.
In a press statement, the family said they had the opportunity to briefly view the pages of the virtual autopsy report, which included photos, during their meeting with several police officials on Tuesday. But police did not clarify who signed the report.
"For these reasons, the family does not accept that virtual autopsy. If it is a valid report, we do not think there is any reason why we should not be given an opportunity to examine it with professionals," the family said.
Police shared the findings of the virtual autopsy with the family through a document translated into Dhivehi. The family said the police told them the document was titled "Expert Opinion" instead of "Virtual Autopsy Report."
"The four photographs in the document are from the scene and it is not known whether a 3d scan of the deceased's entire body has been done. The document was not in the format of a report and included questions and answers. This leads us to believe it is not a report," Zakiyya's family said.
The family added that they do not believe the virtual autopsy is legally valid.
According to the police information, the document was prepared through the diplomatic channel. The family said the document cannot be taken into consideration for the investigation or trial.
The family stated that the police have so far not clarified the nature of Zakiyya's mental illness and the diagnosis.
They further requested that the investigation concluding her death as suicide be suspended. They made the request as other state agencies are investigating the case and it would not be fair to make such a decision.
While Zakiyya is believed to have committed suicide, the family said the investigation should determine the reason for the suicide.
Despite questionable circumstances, an autopsy was not done on Zakiyya's body. Home Minister Ali Ihusaan travelled to Holhudhoo island after a series of protests and told the residents it was a wrong decision.
Holhudhoo residents have protested multiple times to seek justice for Zakiyya.
Zakiyyaa was a native of Holhudhoo island. She was found dead with stab wounds to the neck on the morning of September 10, 2024.
Police said Zakiyya had three deep wounds on her right side, two deep wounds on her left side and one shallow wound in the middle of her neck.
However, there were no signs of any other injuries and no signs of an assault at the warehouse where Zakiyya was found dead. The warehouse is located at her home.
