The Maldives Criminal Court has sentenced two journalists from the news outlet Adhadhu to prison for violating a court order regarding a documentary involving President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu.

Journalist Mohamed Shahuzaan was sentenced to 15 days in prison, while Leevan Ali Nasir received a 10-day sentence. Both were found in contempt of court for failing to adhere to a restrictive order issued last Sunday, which prohibited any direct or indirect discussion or dissemination of materials related to the documentary.

The violations reportedly occurred during a press conference at the President’s Office, where Shahuzaan raised questions about the matter, and subsequently when Leevan published a report on the subject. The court held the hearing in a closed session, citing the need to uphold social moral standards and prevent the spread of restricted information.