British High Commissioner says police raid on Adhadhu sits uneasily with Maldives’ Commonwealth commitments

British High Commissioner to the Maldives Nicholas David Low has expressed concern over the police raid on the office of the Adhadhu newspaper.

Police raided the newsroom last month in connection with a documentary published by the outlet, seizing electronic equipment in a manner that disrupted its operations.

In a post on X, the High Commissioner said the raid raised questions about the Maldives’ adherence to Commonwealth standards. He noted that the UK has consistently raised concerns about media freedom, and said free and independent journalism is essential to a healthy democracy.

The passports of Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Managing Editor Hassan Mohamed have been seized, and both have been ordered to appear before the police.

The Maldives Journalists Association (MJA) has expressed dissatisfaction with the raid, and some journalists staged a peaceful protest outside the office.

Recent reports of the Maldives Police Service raid on Adhadhu are troubling. The UK has consistently raised concerns about media freedom. The raid sits uneasily with Maldives’ commitment to Commonwealth standards. Free and independent media are essential to healthy democracy.

— Nick Low (@NickDLow) April 28, 2026

On Tuesday, the Maldives Media and Broadcasting Commission (MMBC) issued a statement responding to criticism over its silence. The Commission said it does not have the authority to determine investigative standards used by police, but will review content‑related issues and take administrative action where necessary.

The Maldives first joined the Commonwealth as a special member on 9 July 1982 and became a full member on 20 June 1985. The country withdrew from the organisation on 13 October 2016 during the administration of former President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom, following criticism over the imprisonment of political leaders and restrictions on fundamental rights. The government at the time said the Commonwealth was interfering in domestic affairs.

Maldives rejoined the Commonwealth under President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, who came to power with the support of former President Yameen, has longstanding ties to the UK, where he studied. The first High Commissioner he met after his election was then‑British High Commissioner Caron Rohsler, reflecting the traditionally close relationship between the two countries.