Travel ban imposed on Adhadhu editor amid police inquiry

The passport of Hassan Mohamed, editor of news outlet Adhadhu, has been withheld in connection with a police investigation into the documentary Aisha.

The documentary, released late last month, contained allegations against President Mohamed Muizzu. Police have opened a criminal case in relation to the publication.

On Monday night, officers searched the Adhadhu office under a court order and seized electronic devices used in the outlet’s operations. During the same operation, a separate order was issued withholding the passport of the company’s chief executive, Hussain Fiyaz Moosa.

The Criminal Court of the Maldives later ordered that Hassan Mohamed’s passport and travel documents be withheld for three months, from Monday until 27 July.

According to the order, Hassan is suspected of involvement in the release of the documentary. The court also stated that police intelligence suggested he was preparing to leave the Maldives.

The reasons cited in the order were the same as those used in the earlier travel ban imposed on Fiyaz Moosa.

Police are investigating Adhadhu, including Hassan and Fiyaz, for allegedly making accusations and committing Qazf against the President. The case cites Sections 30 and 612(a) of the Penal Code.

Section 612(a) concerns knowingly making or repeating false accusations of adultery.

Earlier this week, during a press conference, Adhadhu questioned President Muizzu regarding the documentary. The President responded that the allegations were “absolutely false”.

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

Police then began criminal proceedings and sought court orders linked to the case.