Police special team in Feeali as investigation continues into oil tanker fire

A special police team has been deployed to F. Feeali to investigate the fire that caused extensive damage to an oil tanker and several nearby vessels, authorities said on Sunday.

Police received the report of a fire on an oil tanker moored at the Feeali harbour at 9:15am on Thursday. The blaze was brought under control at 10:35am, but not before it spread to three boats and destroyed the island’s ice plant.

Police said a team on the island met with the Feeali Council to share updates on the ongoing investigation and the measures being taken. The meeting was led by Chief Superintendent of Police Ahmed Azhan and attended by senior officers and council members.

According to police, the investigation is being given special priority, and a dedicated team from Male' is now stationed on the island to conduct further inquiries. The agency emphasised the importance of cooperation between institutions to prevent similar incidents and strengthen safety measures.

Police also thanked Feeali residents for their assistance in controlling the fire and supporting emergency efforts.

The Feeali Council has expressed concern over the significant damage to vessels and island infrastructure, and urged that the investigation into the cause of the fire be completed as soon as possible.

One person, a Bangladeshi crew member working on the tanker, sustained severe burns in the incident. He was treated at the Feeali Health Centre before being transferred to Male' for further care and remains on a ventilator.

Feeali Council President Moosa Ahmed earlier told Sun that the fire caused losses exceeding MVR 20 million. Three boats belonging to three families were completely destroyed.