Police launch investigation into death of Mahudhee
The police have launched an investigation into the death of Sergeant First Class Mohamed Mahdi, who passed away from decompression sickness while participating in a search and rescue operation for missing tourists in Vaavu Atoll. According to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), Mahdi died while undergoing treatment at ADK Hospital, and authorities are currently working to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the tragic incident. While the operation was initiated following reports of missing Italian divers, officials have yet to release further details regarding the specifics of the case.
Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahdi of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has passed away during the search operation for the missing divers. | MNDF
The police have announced that an investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the death of Sergeant First Class Mohamed Mahdi, who passed away during an operation to locate missing Italian divers.
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has confirmed that Mahdi, a diver who participated in Saturday’s search and rescue operation for four missing divers in Vaavu Atoll, has passed away due to decompression sickness. However, neither the MNDF nor the police have provided further details regarding the incident at this time.
In a message sent to their media group, the police stated that they are currently investigating the tragic circumstances surrounding the death of Sergeant First Class Mohamed Mahdi, which occurred during a search operation conducted on May 16, 2026.
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) reported on Saturday that Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahdi has passed away while receiving treatment at ADK Hospital following a sudden deterioration in his health.
The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) received a report of missing divers at approximately 13:45 on Thursday.
