The Maldivian Democratic Party (MDP) has expressed strong concern over a police raid conducted on the office of Adhadhu, an independent online news outlet, describing the move as a serious threat to press freedom.

Police entered the newsroom on Monday night under a court order.

However, in a press release, the MDP stated that the nature and scope of the warrant raise significant concerns, particularly regarding potential violations of media rights.

According to the party, reports from journalists indicate that the warrant does not clearly specify the scope of the search or the alleged offence under investigation.

The MDP also noted that electronic devices belonging to the news outlet were being confiscated during the operation.

The raid comes shortly after Adhadhu aired a documentary featuring a young woman, whose identity was withheld making allegations related to President Dr Mohamed Muizzu.

In its statement, the MDP stressed that in a democratic society, such allegations should be addressed through transparent and independent processes rather than actions that could be perceived as intimidation of the press.

The party further linked the incident to recent legislative developments, including what it described as a media control law passed with broad and loosely defined powers over the media.

The MDP warned that such measures, combined with the raid, risk creating an environment where independent journalism is restricted and public scrutiny discouraged.

Reaffirming the importance of a free press in a democratic system, the MDP called on authorities to ensure that any investigative actions are proportionate, clearly grounded in law, and do not undermine public trust in democratic institutions.