Adhadhu editor Hassan refuses to answer questions in ‘Aisha’ documentary probe

Hassan Mohamed, the managing editor of Adhadhu, exercised his right to remain silent on Wednesday, as he was questioned by police in the criminal investigation into the news outlet’s documentary ‘Aisha’.

The documentary, published on March 28, featured an anonymized interview with a woman who made serious allegations against President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

On Monday night, the police stormed the office of ‘Adhadhu’ over the documentary and seized multiple electronic devices. The police also produced travel ban orders against Hassan and the news outlet’s CEO and chief editor Hussain Fiyaz Moosa.

Both Hassan and Fiyaz were told to present themselves to the Sergeant Adam Haleem Criminal Investigation Building for questioning on Wednesday.

Hassan, who was told to present himself at 08:30 am, went with his lawyer, Sayyah Khaleel.

Speaking to reporters afterwards, Sayyah said that his client denied the allegations against him, and exercised his right to remain silent.

Hassan faces at least five criminal allegations. They are:

• Vicarious liability and complicity under Section 30 of the Penal Code
• Vicarious liability and complicity under Section 30 (a) (ii) of the Penal Code
• False accusation of adultery (qazf) under Section 612 of the Penal Code
• Solicitation to commit an offense under Section 81 of the Penal Code
• Conspiracy to commit an offense under Section 82 of the Penal Code

Meanwhile, Fiyaz was told to present himself before the police at 02:30 pm for questioning.

Authorities have also suspended the passport of Aishath Easha Ashraf, a former President’s Office employee, in connection to the case.

The travel bans against Fiyaz, Hassan and Easha all cite intelligence reports suggesting they were attempting to flee the country. All three have had their passports suspended for three months.

The case has sparked condemnation the Maldives Journalists Association (MJA), which accused the government of crossing a clear red line, and demanded an immediate end to the intimidation of journalists and the suppression of press freedom.

In has also raised concerns within the international community.