The Criminal Court has ordered Adhadhu to provide passwords for electronic devices seized during a police search of its newsroom.
The order covers four Apple MacBooks among the items taken. It requires that data extraction take place in the presence of a representative appointed by the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission. The court noted that the materials are subject to legal privilege because they were seized from a journalistic establishment and directed that confidentiality measures be applied. Any evidence obtained must be used solely for the case specified in the warrant.
Police raided the Adhadhu office on the night of 27 April, one month after the release of the Aisha documentary, which contained allegations concerning President Mohamed Muizzu. The investigation continues. Adhadhu has previously stated that providing passwords could expose confidential sources.
The order adds to ongoing legal proceedings connected with the documentary and questions of press freedom and source protection.