Police launch investigation into man missing off Dhidhdhoo

Police have commenced an investigation into the case of Ahmed Mujthaba, 39, who went missing while out fishing off Haa Alifu Dhidhdhoo.

The police media official told Sun Online today that the investigation was launched when the incident was reported to the police, and that it will continue until Mujthaba is found.

When asked if the investigation is only about finding Mujthaba, the police media official said that it also involves “other issues” related to the incident.

Questions were raised about Mujthaba’s disappearance when his boat was discovered undamaged about 100 miles from Dhidhdhoo.

When he went fishing on 9 January, Mujthaba was accompanied by Hussain Irfad, 17, and a Sri Lankan national who is married to a Dhidhdhoo woman.

While Mujthaba disappeared with the boat, the other two people swam back to the island.

Irfad said that when the boat began sinking, they started swimming towards the island, but Mujthaba refused to leave the boat behind.

Irfad said that he last saw Mujthaba holding on to the boat after it had capsized.

The police said that the boat, however, was afloat and undamaged when it was discovered by fishermen from Haa Alifu Ihavandhoo.

Police said that further details cannot be given at this stage, as “other issues” related to the incident are under investigation.