Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has revealed that the Coast Guard has assisted a Sri Lankan fishing vessel found in distress in Northern Maldivian waters.
MNDF said the fishing vessel has now been safely escorted and harboured at Uligamu Island in Haa Alifu atoll and that the 7 Sri Lankan citizens onboard are awaiting necessary paperwork for their return to Sri Lanka. According to MNDF, the fishing vessel was found 62 nautical miles North West of Thuraakunu Island in Haa Alifu atoll. The engine of the vessel was damaged beyond repair.
37 fishing vessels from India and 30 fishing vessels from Sri Lanka have been reported missing after the devastating Cyclone Ockhi hit the region. In response, the Indian navy has commenced a search and rescue mission in the Maldivian territory in search of the missing fishing vessels and fishermen.