Journalists questioned for reporting prisoner statements

Police are questioning Maldivian journalists for covering statements by the jailed former vice president, days after prison authorities threatened legal action against media if they reported prisoner remarks.

Mihaaru and Avas both said that police officers went to their offices on Wednesday, asking about a statement from Ahmed Adeeb.

It follows a notice from the Maldives Correctional Service (MCS) earlier in the week, saying it will take legal action against those responsible for publicising and publishing prisoner comments.

Avas said a police team went to their office without prior notice and that the officers asked how the statement was obtained.

Police spokesman Ahmed Shifan told Avas that police were researching and clarifying how his statement was reported. It was not an investigation, he was quoted as saying.

Adeeb is in prison for terrorism and corruption and has been openly critical about his former superior, President Abdulla Yameen, ever since his imprisonment.

He has released several statements through his legal team. One of his lawyers, Moosa Siraj, said he should be questioned instead.

“Stop threatening the media. If you have to question, question me. I’m the one who releases the statements when Adeeb gives it,” he said in a tweet.