DCP Farhad accused of destroying evidence in son’s rape case

Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Farhad Fikry has been accused of destroying evidence in a rape case involving his son, as well as obstructing a separate investigation into a traffic-related assault.

The allegations were submitted to Parliament’s Security Services Committee (241 Committee) by 11 senior police officers acting as whistle-blowers.

The officers, all holding the rank of Chief Inspector or higher, addressed their letter to committee chair Ahmed Saleem, MP for Eydhafushi. The letter outlines misconduct by both DCP Farhad and Assistant Commissioner Ahmed Shifan, warning that their actions are undermining the integrity of the Maldives Police Service.

One of the most serious allegations involves a 2018 rape case in which Farhad’s son was reportedly involved. According to the letter, police seized a phone containing video and photo evidence related to the assault of a girl under the age of 18. Whistle-blowers allege that Farhad used his position to delete the contents and destroy additional evidence.

The case was forwarded to the Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO), which reportedly returned it to police, citing the destruction of key evidence. The PGO also noted Farhad’s involvement and recommended action be taken against him. However, whistle-blowers say it remains unclear whether any disciplinary steps were pursued.

In a separate incident on February 27, 2025, Farhad’s stepson was allegedly intoxicated and assaulted a police officer after being stopped for speeding in Hulhumale'. The motorcycle he was riding was reportedly registered under a different vehicle number and he did not hold a valid license.

Whistle-blowers claim Farhad intervened to halt the investigation, pressured officers to release the motorcycle from the tow yard prematurely, and threatened disciplinary action against the officer who initiated the case. He allegedly contacted the Chief Inspector of Hulhumale' Traffic Police via WhatsApp, asking whether his son would be treated “like an ordinary person.”

The letter also alleges that Farhad used internal police software to gather information about the case and instructed senior officers to interfere. The Police Board had previously decided to dismiss five officers, including Farhad, but the High Court later overturned the decision, citing procedural abuse.

Despite the pending allegations, Farhad was promoted to Assistant Commissioner last year while the case was still in court.

Whistle-blowers warn that Farhad’s continued influence poses a threat to institutional accountability and public trust. They are urging Parliament to investigate the cases and take appropriate action.