Evidence fails to prove Farhad destroyed evidence against his son: Ihusan

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan has stated that the allegations against Farhad Fikry, who was accused of destroying evidence to protect his son, have not been proven.

Farhad is accused of abusing his official position, including allegations that he destroyed evidence related to a case involving his son. These matters have been submitted to the Parliament's 241 Committee. However, the committee has yet to reach a decision on the issue.

During a press conference held on Thursday, RaajjeTV questioned Homeland Security Minister Ali Ihusan regarding the decision to entrust the leadership of the police institution to an individual facing serious allegations. In response, Minister Ihusan stated that the Maldives Police Service Act explicitly mandates that in the absence of a Commissioner, the responsibility of heading the institution falls to the serving Deputy Commissioner. He clarified that, under such circumstances, the transition of authority occurs by law and is not a matter of personal appointment by the Minister.

Following the recent resignation of Commissioner Naveen, we have not officially appointed any individual to the role, nor have there been any discussions regarding a specific appointment. This is because the law dictates an automatic procedure where a Deputy Commissioner assumes the responsibilities of the institution’s leadership in an acting capacity. Regarding the concerns raised about why an appointment was made to the post of Deputy Commissioner despite existing allegations, we have reviewed the matter through the three relevant state institutions mandated by Maldivian law. None of these oversight bodies have determined that any disciplinary action, such as dismissal or the withholding of promotion, should be taken against Faruhadh. The investigations into those specific allegations have been concluded, and he has been exonerated. This means the relevant institutions investigating these matters have determined that the allegations could not be proven against him.

Minister of Homeland Security and Technology Ali Ihusan

Minister Ihusan stated that all allegations will be thoroughly investigated and appropriate action will be taken where necessary. He emphasized that no individual will be subjected to unfair or unjust disciplinary measures if the investigation finds no grounds for action. The Minister further noted that this remains the established protocol for the future. He assured that these procedures will be strictly followed whenever allegations are leveled against any police officer or personnel within other uniformed services.

Among the allegations against Farhad is the claim that he used his official influence to destroy evidence gathered during an investigation into his son, who was accused of raping a minor. The complaint submitted to the Parliament’s 241 Committee alleges that during a 2018 investigation into a gang rape involving Farhad’s son, a mobile phone was seized as evidence. However, the letter further alleges that a criminal investigation revealed Farhad had deleted videos and photos from the device and destroyed additional evidence.

Furthermore, the letter stated that the investigation into the case had been concluded and forwarded to the Prosecutor General’s Office (PGO) for charges to be filed. However, the PGO has since sent a letter to the Police, noting that certain evidence required to prove the case had been destroyed.

Furthermore, the allegations include his conduct regarding an incident on the night of February 27, 2024, involving his son. It is alleged that while under the influence, his son drove at high speeds through various areas of Hulhumalé and assaulted a police officer who signaled for him to stop. Following the son's summons to the Hulhumalé Phase I Police Station, DCP Farhad is accused of using his influence to obstruct the investigation. He is further alleged to have unlawfully removed his son's motorcycle from the tow yard after it had been impounded.

This marks the second instance since President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu assumed office that a police officer facing serious criminal allegations—including corruption, abuse of power, and tampering with evidence—has been appointed to a leadership role within the police institution.