Death sentences handed in Udhayyu case, per family’s wishes

The Criminal Court has, on Sunday, convicted and sentenced two individuals to death for the murder of 17-year-old Ahmed Udhayyu, which occurred four years ago in Gaafu Alifu Maamendhoo.

The tragic incident unfolded on February 8, 2021, during a gang altercation in which Udhayyu’s brother, Firushan Zahir, also sustained injuries from a sharp weapon.

Firushan received medical treatment at Gaafu Alifu Atoll Hospital and subsequently at Dr. Abdul Samad Memorial Hospital (ASMH) in Gaafu Dhaalu Thinadhoo. Regrettably, Udhayyu succumbed to his injuries during treatment.

Ahmed Shameem of Rihifarudhaage and Mohamed Mazin of Gulfaamge, both residents of GA. Maamendhoo, were found guilty of murder with intent. Their death sentences were pronounced in accordance with the request of Udhayyu's family for the ultimate penalty.

Prior to sentencing, Udhayyu’s mother and father articulated their desire for the death penalty in court, with Udhayyu's mother stating, "I just want death for death, I want a life for a life."

In the same case, Sharaf Rasheed of Bilaihmaage was charged with being an accessory to a murder using a sharp-edged weapon; however, he was not convicted on that specific count. Instead, he was found guilty of participating in the gang fight with a sharp object and was sentenced to seven years of imprisonment.

Mohamed Mazin was also found guilty of the gang fight count and received an additional sentence of 10 years in prison for that offense.

Previously, in October 2022, a 17-year-old boy involved in the case was convicted of murder with intent and sentenced to 25 years in prison.