Jailed Adhadhu Journalist Moved to Solitary Confinement

Jailed Adhadhu journalist Leevan Ali Naseer has been placed in solitary confinement while serving a 10-day prison sentence for contempt of court linked to reporting on the controversial “Aisha” documentary case.

According to Adhadhu, Leevan was transferred from Unit 12 to Unit 10 on Friday after previously being held alongside fellow journalist Mohamed Shahzan. The two journalists were jailed over allegations that they violated a Criminal Court gag order connected to the documentary, which is also central to criminal charges against Adhadhu CEO Hussain Fiyaz Moosa and Editor Hassan Mohamed.  

The report states that Leevan’s health has deteriorated in the new prison unit, with concerns raised over unsanitary conditions and pest infestations. He is also reportedly being forced to sleep on the floor, worsening a pre-existing skin condition that requires specialized medicinal treatment. Family members and lawyers claim he has been denied access to necessary medication.  
Lawyers representing the detained journalists further alleged that prison authorities blocked access to funds sent by their families for essential items. Clothes delivered to the prison on Friday had also reportedly not been handed over to either journalist at the time of reporting.  

Despite the conditions, their legal team said both journalists remain determined and steadfast while in detention.

The imprisonment of the two Adhadhu journalists has drawn criticism from media freedom advocates and press organizations, with growing concerns over the state of press freedom and judicial restrictions on reporting in the Maldives.