Government denies ordering surveillance on ministers, lawyers
Two former attorneys general, a minister at the president’s office, and the former Islamic affairs minister have been under secret police surveillance for nearly a year on suspicion of plotting a coup d’état, a credible source has said.
07 Apr 2016, 9:00 AM
Two former attorneys general, a minister at the president’s office, and the former Islamic affairs minister have been under secret police surveillance for nearly a year on suspicion of plotting a coup d’état, according to a credible source.
The criminal court in May 2015 authorised the police to tap the phones of Legal Affairs Minister Aishath Azima Shukoor, prominent lawyers Husnu Suood and Dr Mohamed Munnavar, as well as former Islamic Minister Dr Mohamed Shaheem Ali Saeed, the well-informed source told The Maldives Independent on the condition of anonymity.
“The orders were issued on suspicion of planning to overthrow the lawful government with foreign nationals. It was first issued in May 2015, renewed every three months and was last renewed on March 16, 2016,” the source said.
According to the source, the lawyers were unaware of the court orders until recently. One of them learned of the surveillance last week through “other unofficial means”.
Become a member
Get full access to our archive and personalise your experience.
Already a member?
Discussion
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
No comments yet. Be the first to join the conversation!
Join the Conversation
Sign in to share your thoughts under an alias and take part in the discussion. Independent journalism thrives on open, respectful debate — your voice matters.
