A military service member has died after a landing craft operated by Sifainge Welfare Company (SIWEC) capsized in the Kaashidhoo Channel, a strait locally known as 'Kaashidhoo Kandu'. The capsizing led to five individuals being taken to Lhaviyani Atoll Hospital. Four remain under medical care, according to hospital officials.
The deceased was identified as Warrant Officer 2 Ali Hamid of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). The deceased was taken to the hospital and later died from injuries sustained in the incident, hospital authorities told PSM News. Of those admitted, three are Maldivian citizens and two are foreign nationals, officials said.
Authorities have not confirmed how many people were aboard the craft at the time. The MNDF continues to conduct search operations in the area for any individuals who may be unaccounted for.
In a statement posted on social media, President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said he received the news with a deep sense of loss and expressed profound sorrow over Hamid's death. He extended condolences to Hamid's family and the MNDF, offering prayers for the deceased and for strength and patience for the bereaved family.