British High Commissioner Low condemns police raid on Adhadhu and seizure of property
British High Commissioner Caron Rohsler has condemned the police raid on the 'Adhadhu' news office and the seizure of staff passports following the publication of a documentary alleging corruption against President Muizzu. Highlighting that such actions contravene Commonwealth standards, the High Commissioner emphasized the vital role of a free press in a robust democracy, as international organizations continue to voice growing concerns over the state of media freedom in the Maldives.
The British Ambassador to the Maldives, Nicholas David Low, pictured during a ceremony held at the presidential residence, Mulee'aage. | President's Office
The British High Commissioner to the Maldives, Nicholas David Low, has condemned the police raid on the "Adhadhu" newsroom following the publication of its documentary titled "Aisha" across its social media platforms.
In a post on X, Nick Low stated that recent reports regarding the police raid on the Adhadhu news office are deeply concerning. He further noted that the actions taken by the Maldives Police Service contradict the commitments the Maldives has made to uphold Commonwealth standards.
Furthermore, the Ambassador stated that the existence of a free and independent media is essential for the preservation of a robust democracy.
Police have launched a criminal investigation into the documentary released on the 28th of last month. As part of the measures taken in the probe, police conducted a court-ordered search of the Adhadhu newsroom and seized several electronic devices used in the outlet's operations.
Furthermore, court orders have been issued to withhold the passports of the news outlet's CEO, Hussain Fiyaz Moosa, and its Editor, Hassan Mohamed. Both individuals have also been summoned to appear before the police.
In addition to Nick Low, various international media organizations are expressing concern over the police raid on the Adhadhu newsroom. International bodies are highlighting these actions as a significant threat to media freedom and freedom of expression in the Maldives.
As Adhadhu news releases a documentary leveling allegations of misconduct against President Muizzu, many are raising concerns that the government's subsequent actions constitute a significant threat to press freedom.
