Doctor: Ibthihaal had scars consistent with abuse

Indhira Gandhi Memorial Hospital doctor, Dr. Ahmed Ziyan – who studied the body of three-year-old Mohamed Ibthihaal – has testified that the toddler’s body had multiple scars consistent with abuse.

The doctor’s testimony was heard by Criminal Court during the hearing held this Sunday morning as Afiya Mohamed Manik from V. Rakeedhoo – the mother of Ibthihaal – stands trial for his murder.

Dr. Ziyan testified that Ibthihaal had multiple scars over his body, and had injuries on his head and swelling on his ears and privates.

Dr. Ziyan stressed that Ibthihaal had numerous injuries to his mouth, chest and belly, and that his ribs were broken.

He said that Ibthihaal also had fresh nail marks on his throat consistent with strangling.

Dr. Ziyan said the cause of death was asphyxia.

He said that Ibthihaal had bleeding inside his throat, likely to be from injuries to his stomach.

After the testimony, Afiya said she did not have any questions for the doctor.

The judge again questioned her on the whereabouts of her mother during the hearing.

Afiya said that her mother lived in Male’ City, but that she did not know her exact address.

She said that she had three other siblings – Aishath Mohamed Manik, Adam Manik and Yoosuf Mohamed Manik – who all lived in Male’ City.

The court has already heard testimony from Dr. Ahmed Nishan who also monitored Ibthihaal’s body. It will hear testimony from Dr. Abbas Abdul Hameed during the next hearing.

Afiya – who also has a history of abuse – has confessed to court of beating Ibthihaal.