Police raid Adhadhu office over video allegations against president

Maldives Police Service on Monday searched the offices of news outlet Adhadhu as part of an investigation linked to a video documentary containing allegations against President Mohamed Muizzu.

Police began the search at around 8:00pm on the eighth floor of H. Hazaarumaage, where the outlet’s office is located. The operation was carried out under a court order.

Late last month, Adhadhu released a documentary in which an anonymous woman, identified as a former political appointee, made allegations against the President.

During a press conference earlier on Monday, Adhadhu questioned President Muizzu regarding the claims. He responded by saying the allegations were “categorically false”.

“I request all relevant authorities to prosecute all parties who have spread these lies,” the President said.

According to the court order seen by Dhauru, the search relates to a case involving allegations of Qazf under the Penal Code, concerning claims made in a video published on 28 March 2024 through Adhadhu Online’s X account under the name “Aisha”.

The order stated that those involved in the production and publication of the documentary are suspected of participation in the offence, and that the search seeks evidence linked to the case.

Investigators believe relevant evidence may be stored on computer devices at the office.

The warrant is valid for 72 hours. The case is being handled by the police Serious and Organised Crime Department.

The offence cited is under Section 612(a) of the Penal Code, which criminalises knowingly making or repeating a false accusation of adultery.

Documents listed in the court order as evidence include a police intelligence report, an article published by Adhadhu on 29 March 2026, media registration records, and a letter from the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission.