Nimisha Priya Case: Victim’s Brother Accuses Mediator of Financial Misconduct

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The case involving Indian nurse Nimisha Priya, who faces execution in Yemen, has taken a troubling turn as the brother of the Yemeni victim, Talal Abdo Mahdi, has leveled serious financial misconduct allegations against Samuel Jerome, a mediator associated with the case.

In a statement to News24, Abdul Fattah Mahdi alleged that Jerome collected significant sums of money under the pretense of negotiating a settlement for Priya’s release. Mahdi claimed that the family had no direct communication with Jerome and did not authorize him to act on their behalf. “He is not a lawyer as he claims. He has collected funds from various people by misusing our name,” Mahdi said, adding that Jerome recently received $40,000 in what he described as a fraudulent transaction.

Mahdi also denied any ongoing negotiations or willingness to accept blood money under Islamic law (Qisas), stating that the family is determined to seek justice through legal punishment. “There is no question of accepting any settlement. We want justice for our brother,” he told The Week.

Jerome, who has been described in media reports as a social worker and legal intermediary, allegedly held power of attorney in Yemen. However, the family maintains this was never formally granted for negotiation purposes. Mahdi further claimed that his only meeting with Jerome was brief and lacked any substance related to legal discussions.

The allegations come as efforts continue in India to seek clemency for Nimisha Priya, who was convicted in 2017 for the murder of Talal Abdo Mahdi. Her execution, initially scheduled for July 16, has been temporarily postponed amid diplomatic efforts and public campaigns for intervention.

The Save Nimisha Priya International Action Council has expressed concern that the latest developments may harm ongoing negotiations. The group has urged all parties to avoid public statements that could complicate diplomatic channels or offend the victim’s family.

Meanwhile, India’s Supreme Court has agreed to hear a petition requesting formal diplomatic intervention. The Ministry of External Affairs has stated that it remains in touch with Yemeni authorities and is coordinating with international partners to explore all possible legal and humanitarian avenues.