Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan has dismissed accusations made by Adhadhu journalist Mohamed Shahzan regarding the reasons he and fellow journalist Leevan Ali Naseer were separated while in custody.

In a post shared on X, Minister Ihusaan described the allegations as false and outlined the circumstances that led to the decision.

The Minister stated that on 15 May 2026, at approximately 7:35 p.m., Maldives Correctional Service officers conducted a search in the jail cell where Shahzan and Leevan were being held following a report received by authorities. He said that during the search, carried out in the presence of both detainees, officers discovered a mobile phone hidden inside clothing stored in a cupboard.

Minister Ihusaan said that, in line with standard procedures applied to other detainees in similar situations, the two journalists were subsequently placed in separate cells to allow for monitoring. He added that the cells were also searched periodically as part of routine procedures.

Addressing claims that the decision had been influenced by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, Minister Ihusaan stated that such matters are never decided by the President and that no instructions had ever been issued by the President regarding the case.

The Minister further stated that three separate journalists had been informed about the reasons Shahzan and Leevan were being held separately, but said the explanation had not been reported.

He also noted that the alleged smuggling of contraband into the prison is currently being investigated separately by the Maldives Police Service.

Shahzan and Leevan were jailed for violating a Criminal Court order issued in connection with charges against the heads of Adhadhu.