Safari vessel wrecked within moments after running aground on Maafushi reef

A safari vessel anchored off the coast of K. Maafushi has been destroyed after its anchor cable snapped, causing the vessel to drift and run aground on the island's reef.

The incident occurred at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Friday.

According to reports, the incident occurred during the ongoing spell of bad weather when strong winds caused the safari vessel's anchor line to snap while it was moored outside the island. After the anchor gave way, the vessel drifted and ran aground on the island's breakwater. Shortly thereafter, the safari was completely destroyed by the force of heavy swells.

A Maafushi resident reported that there were people on board the safari vessel when its anchor line snapped. As the vessel began drifting toward the breakwater, everyone on board jumped into the sea and safely made it ashore. The resident further confirmed that no injuries were reported.

According to reports, there were a total of five individuals on board the safari vessel at the time, all of whom are nationals of Sri Lanka and India.

However, official comments regarding the incident have not yet been obtained from the police or any other relevant authorities. Consequently, the exact number of passengers and crew members on board the safari vessel remains unconfirmed.

Incidents at sea tend to increase during the Southwest Monsoon rains. Consequently, the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has urged seafarers to remain vigilant and pay close attention to weather conditions.