Adhadhu CEO’s passport withheld in documentary probe

The passport of Hussain Fiyaz Moosa, chief executive of news outlet Adhadhu, has been withheld in connection with a police investigation into a documentary titled Aisha.

The documentary, released late last month, contained allegations against President Mohamed Muizzu. Police opened a criminal investigation on Monday.

The move came as officers began a court-authorised search of Adhadhu’s office on Monday night. During the operation, a separate court order was issued withholding Fiyaz Moosa’s passport.

According to the order seen by Dhauru, the case concerns allegations of Qazf and claims made against the President in the documentary. The order stated that Fiyaz is suspected of involvement and that travel restrictions were imposed because authorities believed he may leave the Maldives.

The order, issued by Muzammil Nasir of the Criminal Court of the Maldives, cited police intelligence claiming that Fiyaz was preparing to travel abroad.

The passport has been withheld for three months.

The order refers to Sections 30 and 612(a) of the Penal Code. Section 612(a) concerns knowingly making or repeating false accusations of adultery.

Earlier on Monday, during a press conference, Adhadhu questioned President Muizzu about the documentary’s claims. The President responded that the allegations were “absolute lies”.

“I request all relevant authorities to prosecute all parties who spread these falsehoods,” he said.

Police then initiated criminal proceedings and sought court orders in relation to the case.