A mother and daughter were found unconscious inside their home in Male' this morning following a suspected gas leak, witnesses said.

The incident occurred on the second floor of Ma. Astral on Dhilkusha Goalhi (Scoop Goalhi).

Witnesses said a fire engine arrived at the house at about 10am after a strong smell of gas was detected in the area.

Firefighters were unable to get a response from the residents. After knocking on the door, they heard someone coughing inside, but received no response, witnesses said.

With the owner’s permission, firefighters broke down the door and found the mother and daughter lying unconscious on the floor.

The 19-year-old daughter was taken out first, wrapped in a cloth and carried outside. Her 51-year-old mother was then evacuated from the house.

Police identified the mother as Zahidha Taufeeq, 51, of RS 6210, Male'. She was later pronounced dead.

The 19-year-old woman is being treated at ADK Hospital. She is reportedly in serious condition.

The mother and daughter were the only people living in the house, according to reports.

The exact cause of the incident has not yet been established. Residents in the area reported a strong smell of gas.