The Maldives Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) has opened an investigation into the Maldives Media Council's (MMC) decision to grant an investigative journalism award to Adhadhu Online for a documentary that has drawn criticism for alleged breaches of journalistic ethics.

Following a complaint suggesting possible misuse of official positions within the MMC in awarding the prize, ACC investigators visited the MMC office to gather further information on the case.

The documentary, released during the recent presidential campaign, has faced scrutiny for unverified claims, leading some to question its compliance with ethical standards. Previously, the MMC had publicly criticised the documentary for not upholding journalistic integrity, raising further concerns about its recognition at the MMC awards.

MMC’s president clarified that he was not involved in the award decision, as the process was managed entirely by the council's awards committee.