IFJ, MJA express concern over slow progress in search for Rilwan

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Maldives Journalist Association (MJA) have expressed concern over the slow progress made in the search of missing journalist Ahmed Rilwan Abdulla.

In a joint press release, the two organisations noted that one month since Rilwan was last seen, they remain critical of the investigation and the release of information by authorities.

The press release states that the IFJ acting director, Jane Worthington, said, “The huge public response to Rilwan’s disappearance shows the strong desire for justice and answers, not only by his journalistic colleagues but the public at large. One month on, the demand for answers remains strong and if the figures the police provide are correct, there is vital information that is not being shared with the media that might find the culprits behind his disappearance.”

In a joint statement last month, IFJ, MJA and the South Asia Media Solidarity Network (SAMSN) called on the Maldives government to speed up investigations, deploy all the necessary resources and release information to the public that might assist the investigation and search.

Police say residential buildings and guest houses are being searched, as part of the search operation for Rilwan.

Police have further said that the claim by Minivan News, that eyewitnesses in Hulhumale' reported seeing a man in dark clothes being forced into a vehicle at knifepoint outside Rilwan’s apartment at around 2 a.m. in the early hours of 8 August, the night that Rilwan is believed to have disappeared, is also under investigation.

While there is CCTV footage showing Rilwan buying a ticket for the ferry to Hulhumale’ at the Hulhumale’ Ferry Terminal in Male’ on the same night, Police have said that it cannot be confirmed that Rilwan boarded the ferry or reached Hulhumale’.

Rilwan’s family has offered MVR 50,000 to anyone who can provide information that can lead to his location.