Adhadhu has decided not to provide the police with passwords for any of the laptops seized from the news outlet’s office on April 27.
The police requested the passwords for the confiscated electronic devices under a court order. Adhadhu’s CEO, Hussain Fiyaz Moosa, was summoned to police headquarters at 2:00 pm today.
Speaking to reporters after responding to the police, Fiyaz’s legal counsel, Ali Hussain, stated that they informed the police that Fiyaz had not committed Qazf (a criminal charge under Islamic law referring to the false accusation of adultery of fornication).
"We have stated that sources cannot be disclosed. Providing the passwords would reveal those sources. The passwords were withheld to protect the identity of individuals who have provided information, not just regarding this case, but other matters as well," Ali Hussain said.
He further noted that the decision was made because the police investigation into Adhadhu appears to be influenced by specific parties, and because the protection of sources is a right guaranteed by the Constitution.
Article 28 of the Constitution stipulates that no person shall be compelled to disclose the source of any information, news, or opinion disseminated or published by that person.
Section 136(b) of the Evidence Act specifies that journalists can only be compelled to disclose a source in cases involving terrorism or matters of national security.
Ali Hussain also revealed that the police warned of potential consequences today if the passwords were not provided as requested.
"The police mentioned that there could be consequences. We are aware of the legal implications and the possibility of prosecution if the passwords are not handed over," Ali Hussain said.
"However, my client, Fiyaz, maintains that even if faced with charges or imprisonment, we are not prepared to disclose our sources."
Following a four-hour search operation at the news outlet’s office, police seized 20 devices, including laptops, hard drives, and memory cards.
However, the court order presented by the police to search Adhadhu’s office did not include an order to seize any property; it was strictly a search warrant.
The police raid on the office came a month after the publication of the documentary "Aisha," which featured an interview from a former President’s Office employee alleging an extramarital affair involving President Mohamed Muizzu.
