Ex-journalist Aala Ibrahim Rasheed, hailing from Loozan, S. Hithadhoo, has been arrested and remanded in Criminal Court for the alleged fraudulent use of bank slips in her business dealings. 

The Criminal Court has ordered her to be held for 15 days following a detention hearing on July 18. 

According to the court order, Aala is suspected of fraud and soliciting unauthorised services. Prosecutors argue that she would pose a threat to the public upon release, as there are multiple investigations pending against her.

Aala is no stranger to controversy and brushes with the law. In 2014, Broadcasting Commission (Broadcom) sued her under the Anti-Defamation and Freedom of Expression Act for unpaid fines up to MVR50,000. This was related to a news bulletin regarding a rape case and the details of the alleged rapist. Aala failed to pay the fine during the 30-day period she received the letter telling her to do so. However, Aala responded that Broadcom barred her from responding to the allegations prior to paying the fine. It was the first time the Defamation bill was put to use in the Maldives.

Four years later in 2018, she was taken into custody after being caught in possession of three kilograms of drugs. During this time, she was accused of dealing drugs.

With her detention underway, her case will now be intensely investigated. Bank records, witness and transaction details will be formally looked into as part of the prosecutor’s investigation. Her release back into the public or to have her remain in jail is still being debated by the court.