Landing craft sinking: Search ongoing for missing two; eight rescued transported to Gaafaru

The Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) Coast Guard is continuing its search for two individuals reported missing after a landing craft travelling from K. Thilafushi sank near K. Gaafaru while the eight others aboard have since been transported safely Gaafaru.

According to the Maldives Police Service, the incident was reported at approximately 8:48am Friday morning.

The vessel had 10 people aboard at the time of the incident, including two Maldivians and eight expatriates. The Police said search operations are currently focused on locating two expatriate passengers who remain missing.

Speaking with Sun, Gaafaru Council President Mubashir Jaleel said the eight survivors are being accommodated at a local guesthouse under the council's oversight.

"The eight individuals are at a guesthouse under our oversight. They are all in good health," Mubashir confirmed.

The incident occurred amid adverse weather conditions affecting large parts of the Maldives. The Maldives Meteorological Service has forecast heavy rainfall across the country until midnight, with wind gusts expected to reach up to 50 mph.

The Met Office also warned that winds in the southern atolls are expected to range between 25 and 30 mph. It further cautioned that wave surges may occur during high tide and urged the public to remain vigilant.

In light of the severe weather conditions and the recent increase in maritime incidents, the MNDF has urged the public to exercise extreme caution when travelling by sea.

Authorities have advised mariners to avoid undertaking sea voyages without notifying the relevant agencies in advance. Vessel operators have also been urged to ensure that life jackets, communication equipment, and bilge pumps are in proper working order. Cargo vessel operators were further cautioned against overloading and advised to ensure that all cargo is properly secured.