Boat that departed from Mulah with two people still missing: MNDF

Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has said that the location of the fishing boat “Azum” that went missing with two people after departing from Meemu Mulah, remains unknown.

Media Officer for MNDF Captain Abdulla Ali said that two Coast Guard vessels are actively searching for the boat that went missing after it departed from Meemu Mulah at around 20:00 on Saturday, en route to Laamu Maavah.

He said that a helicopter is also being utilised in the search efforts since this afternoon.

“Search efforts are ongoing nonstop since yesterday. The situation has been brought to the attention of TMA flights traveling in the region, and assistance has been requested in the search efforts. Information on the boat has also been provided to island councils in the region,” he said.

MNDF said that last communications with the boat was around 22:15 two nights ago, while the boat was near Hakuraa Huraa in Meemu atoll.

MNDF said that they are currently searching the regions of Thaa, Meemu and Laamu atolls.

The two people travelling on the boat are Abdulla Waheed, 32, of Hiyaleege, Laamu Maavah, and Hassan Rasheed, 39, of Handhuvarudheyge, Alif Dhaalu Maamigili.

MNDF has issued a notice that stated: “A boat named Azum of about 40 feet long, with light green paint. If you receive information regarding this boat, please contact Coast Guard through toll free number 191, or 339 8898 or 339 5981, or send a fax to 339 1665.”