Seven marine incidents reported, man from Gahdhoo still missing

MNDF Coast Guard has stated that they received seven reports of marine incidents yesterday.

MET Office has predicted rough seas, heavy rains and thunderstorms across the country over this weekend.

In one of the incidents, a 75 year old man went missing after sailing between GDh. Gahdhoo and Gan in a dinghy. The man, identified as Zakariyya Mohamed, still remains missing.

MNDF said that Southern Area Command Coast Guard Fourth Squadron is actively searching for him.

When last seen, Zakariyya was wearing a blue short-sleeved shirt and black shorts.

According to Coast Guard, seven marine incidents were reported between 12pm and 11pm yesterday.

Another such incident involved a resort worker from R. Uthurumaafushi Resort going missing after sailing out in a canoe. He later swam to shore at R. Dhuvaafaru.

In Th. Vilufushi, a report was received that 'Viluroadhi' vessel had gone missing. However, the vessel returned to the island around 2am last night, Coast Guard said.

A boat travelling near A. atoll with four adults faced a stalled engine.

A safari sailing near B. Dharavandhoo with 22 guests and 15 crew on board reported taking on water.

A cargo boat, 'Ocean Express', travelling from Male' to L. Hithadhoo with eight Maldivians and four expatriates was also reported as having sunk near Rihiveli Resort. All aboard were rescued and brought back to Male' around midnight.

MNDF provided assistance in all reported marine incidents yesterday.

Authorities have advised vigilance at sea as rough conditions are expected over the coming days with inclement weather.