Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has conducted an operation at Ministry of Health following an insecticide leakage.
The insecticide bottles were being moved from storage when a bottle fell and leaked about a litre of Malathion, resulting in the effects of the chemical spreading in the area.
Captain Ibrahim Azim stated the Roashanee Building, Majeedhiyya School and the surrounding area was evacuated following the insecticide leakage. Azim noted two staff were taken to the hospital following exposure to Malathion.
The military spokesperson expressed the expired insecticide bottles were being transported to Thilafushi for discarding when the leakage occurred. He added 40 bottles were sealed and secured while only 1 bottle was shattered.
Following the leakage, Ministry of Health has advised to refrain from wandering around the area and close the doors and windows of neighbouring households. Noting some symptoms of Malathion inhalation include, coughing and breathing difficulties, watery eyes, blurry vision, headaches, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, the health ministry urged to seek medical attention if any difficulties are experienced.