A 50-year-old woman was found dead with severe injuries in her residence in Noonu atoll Holhudhoo on Tuesday morning, police have confirmed.
Authorities stated they received a report at 10:10 a.m. about a woman lying injured. She was taken to Holhudhoo Health Centre, where she was pronounced dead on arrival.
“The health centre has informed the police that the woman has died. Police are investigating the matter,” a police statement shared with the media said.
A police forensic team is currently on the scene to assist with the investigation.
According to media reports, the deceased, identified as Zakiyya Moosa, was discovered by municipal workers who arrived to collect rubbish. Zakiyya was found lying near the kitchen.
“A large meat knife was found nearby. She had a severe stab wound to her neck,” the report stated, adding that several people were in the house at the time, but some were likely asleep while others had gone to work.
Zakiyya, who leaves behind two sons, two grandchildren, and a husband, was well-known in the community. “They are a well-off family,” the report noted, but added that there were unconfirmed rumours in the island about Zakiyya having mental health issues.
Police have not disclosed any further details as the investigation continues.