Head of broadcast watchdog accuses deputy of ‘kidnap’

The president of the Maldives broadcasting watchdog has accused his deputy of keeping him hostage and threatening him, local media reported.

A complaint against the Maldives Broadcasting Commission’s vice president Ismail Sofwan was lodged with police Monday night by his boss, Mohamed Shaheeb.

Shaheeb said he was kept hostage inside his room in the MBC office and that Sofwan gave him three options: to go on leave for eight days, to issue a memo transferring his duties to the deputy for an eight day period or to resign.

The MBC president told Mihaaru that he asked police for security and to investigate the incident, which he alleged took place Monday morning.

Shaheeb said he tried to leave the room but a long-haired man was standing near the door. He spent 30 minutes locked inside the room and described it as an “act to threaten and obstruct his duties.”

But Sofwan denied the accusation, Mihaaru reported, and urged police to investigate the allegation against him.

The MBC is stacked with loyalists of President Abdulla Yameen. Commission members used to be employed by the first lady’s office and have been involved in organising political events for the ruling coalition.

Police spokesman Ahmed Shifan was not responding to calls when contacted by the Maldives Independent for details.

Photo of Mohamed Shaheeb from Raajje.mv