Embassy: No Maldivians reported injured in Thai earthquake so far

Maldivian Ambassador to Thailand Fuad Thaufeeq states the Maldivian Embassy in Thailand has not received any reports of a Maldivian citizen being injured in the powerful earthquake that rattled the southeast asian nation on Friday.

According to the United States Geological Survey, the 7.7-magnitude tremor which hit northwest of the city of Sagaing, Myanmar, at a depth of 10 kilometers, on Friday afternoon, was felt in northern Thailand, Bangkok, and China's Yunnan province.

Bangkok, which recorded significant damage in the earthquake, is home to many Maldivians and a popular destination for Maldivian travelers.

Speaking with Sun, Fuad confirmed that the Embassy has not received any reports of a Maldivian citizen being injured in the earthquake so far. He noted that the Embassy is currently undertaking efforts to contact all Maldivians residing in Thailand.

“No reports of any injury to a Maldivian citizen nor any such concerning incidents have been made so far,” he said.

Although the exact number of Maldivian citizens currently in Bangkok is unclear, Fuad estimated that it would be around 150.

“People that are not staying for long term do not register. Only some people that are permanently residing register with us Embassy as well,” he added.

Fuad affirmed that the Embassy will inquire whether any Maldivian citizens have faced injuries or a loss due to the earthquake.

According to Fuad, tremors were felt in the majority of the Thai capital where a state of emergency has been announced. As such, he said this would make it easier to attend to any reports of injuries to a Maldivian citizen.

Some highrise buildings in Bangkok were brought to rubble in the earthquake. The exact number of deaths and injuries remains unclear at the moment.

Maldives Metrological Service states Maldives will not be affected by the earthquake.