Shaheem acquitted of murdering Fathimath Zakariyya

Criminal Court has found Ali Shaheem, Gulhazaaruge, Kaafu Guraidhoo, not guilty of the murder of Fathimath Zakariyya, Ranview, Haa Dhaalu Neykurendhoo.

The court said in its verdict that the murder charge was denied by Shaheem, and the State was not able to provide sufficient evidence to prove the charges in court.

Shaheem was accused by the State of murdering Fathimath Zakariyya through suffocation at her home sometime after the call for Maghrib prayer on 15 April 2012.

Shaheem confessed to the murder during the investigation, but denied the charge in court.

Fathimath Zakariyya had no visible injuries and was at first thought to have died naturally. Suspicions of foul play arose several days after she was buried.