Missing Maldivian from capsized cargo boat found dead

Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) states one of the individuals reported missing after a cargo boat capsized early Sunday morning has been discovered dead.

The incident was reported at approximately 7:27am on Sunday morning.

The cargo boat, ‘Balma 6’, capsized near Taj Exotica Resort.

Earlier, the MNDF said that two of the four people on board were rescued by a vessel passing the area, while search efforts continued for the remaining two who were missing. Maldives Police Service identified the missing persons as a Maldivian and an expatriate.

In an update just a few minutes ago, MNDF said the body of one of the missing persons was discovered in Taj Exotica Resort's lagoon and subsequently, has been handed over to the Police.

MNDF added that search operations for the second missing person were ongoing.

MNDF identified the deceased as the missing Maldivian person. The expatriate remains unaccounted for.

No further details regarding the incident have been disclosed by the authorities.