DRP calls for investigation of the accidental death of MNDF officer

Divehi Rayyithunge Party (DRP), main opposition in the Maldives, has called for an independent inquiry into the case of an accidental death of a Maldives National Defense Forces (MNDF) member in L. Atoll Kadhdhoo yesterday.

There have been accusations that the accident was the result of a “negligent discharge” by some officers in charge of the training. MNDF has not yet responded to such accusations.

DRP’s appeal to investigate the matter through an independent agent came through a declaration published following the incident. “An accident can occur even at the hands of such professionals as MNDF officers. However, the circumstances of this sad happening create grounds for suspicion about the security measures taken at the place where it occurred”, said the statement.

DRP statement urged the government to carry on investigations through MNDF and police as well as an independent investigator, in order to make sure that the true reasons for the incident would become known. “The purpose of such an independent investigation would be to understand steps to be taken to avoid similar happenings in the future”, read the statement.

The officer, Ibrahim Shaukat, 32, from R. Atoll Alifushi died yesterday morning, while he was attached to a body guard training program being conducted as part of the MNDF preparations for the upcoming SAARC Summit. He was accidentally hit in the head by a live bullet, reported MNDF yesterday.

According to Ibrahim Rasheed, In Charge of L. Atoll Regional Hospital, Shaukat was declared dead by doctors upon examination about five minutes after the bullet pierced his head. “The bullet hit his forehead and pierced his head right through”, said Ibrahim Rasheed.

Major Abdul Raheem from MNDF said yesterday that a team of police officers and MNDF officials were already doing investigations and no official explanation of how the accident occurred has yet been given. “We cannot say anything before the investigations are over”, said Abdul Raheem.

Shaukat’s dead body was brought to Alifushi, his birthplace, and was given a state funeral. He was buried after the night prayers last night. Senior Officials of MNDF and dignitaries from R. Atoll participated in the funeral.

Shaukat has left behind a 5-year old daughter. While the government has given Shaukat a state funeral, no senior officials have stated anything about any benefits to be provided for the family in deep sorrow.