One missing after fire engulfs cargo vessel 'Holhudhoo Boat'

One passenger is missing after a fire broke out on the cargo vessel "Holhudhoo Boat", which was transporting goods to Thaa and Laamu atolls.

It has been reported that of the approximately 18 people on board, 25-year-old Ali Mushfiq from Laamu atoll Maavah, is missing. Coast Guard and members of the public are actively searching for him.

The vessel caught fire near Kandoodhoo while en route to Male'. The vessel was operating on a lease basis.

Two individuals, one local and one expatriate, sustained injuries and were initially treated at Thaa atoll Kandoodhoo Health Centre. They are now being transferred to Dhaalu atoll Kudahuvadhoo for further treatment.

A health center official stated that while there were no serious injuries, the two were in shock.

A Kandoodhoo Council member speaking about the incident told Mihaaru News that all passengers jumped into the sea wearing life jackets when the fire broke out. They were rescued by a speedboat that arrived at the scene.

As not everyone could be accommodated on the first speedboat, another was brought for the rescue effort.

A video shared by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) shows flames engulfing the entire vessel. The fire was too intense to save the vessel.