Protest leader Hussain arrested amid calls for release of Adhadhu journalists

Former journalist and Maldivian Democratic Party National Council member Hussain Hassan was arrested by police on Thursday night during preparations for a protest calling for the release of detained journalists from Adhadhu.

Police took Hussain into custody at around 9:00 p.m. near Le Cute on Majeedhee Magu. Another individual was also arrested at the scene while only a small number of people were present in the area.

Both individuals were later taken to the Malé Custodial facility.

Hussain has been involved in organising and leading protests held over the past two nights in support of detained Adhadhu journalists Leevan Ali Nasir and Mohamed Shahuzan.

During the arrest, Hussain said he was not resisting police officers.

“We are being arrested simply because I am standing here alone,” he said.

While being taken into custody, Hussain continued calling for the release of the two journalists.

Police arrested ten people during the previous night’s protest, including writer Shammoon Jaleel, also known as Lucas, who is known for criticism of the government on social media.

The Criminal Court on Thursday ordered that three of those arrested, including Shammoon, remain in custody.