Maldives Police Service has revealed the vessel which capsized while illegally transporting sand does not belong to the company which built the Sina-Male’ Bridge.
The Chinese Embassy has assured the boat capsized is registered a sub-contractor of CCCC Second Harbour Engineering Company, according to police service. Further, CCCC have dissolved the sub-contract of the vessel. Citing Chinese Embassy, the police underlined the vessel is registered under Hunan Oubo Technology Company Limited.
However, in a statement, Maldives Customs Service issued following the vessel’s capture revealed the vessel which was illegally carrying sand belonged to the company which constructed the Sina-Male’ Bridge. Customs said the vessel do not hold the necessary licenses and permits to operate in Maldivian Economic Zone.
The service noted a vessel can only enter to Maldives with special licenses granted by customs service. Customs said the laws and regulations prohibits unpermitted anchorage, travel and entrance and exit of foreign ships in Maldives. Customs revealed the case is under investigation of relevant authorities.
Meanwhile, the police service said the vessel was traveling to a resort developed in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll highlighting it was harboured in Laamu Atoll due to unfavourable weather conditions. After searching the vessel, police said the boat was filled with a large quantity of mined sand, adding neither a registration nor a flag was seen on board. When questioned, the crew said the sand was used to balance the vessel, as heavy vehicles were on-board the craft, the police said.
In addition, Minister of Environment and Energy Dr. Hussain Rasheed Hassan has requested authorities to conduct an investigation on the vessel.