The passengers or crew on a boat that ran aground on a coral reef in Innafinolhu of Haa Alifu atoll attempted to flee after burning the boat, when rescue officers arrived at the scene.

The incident was reported around 6:00 in the morning.

Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) said that there were eight onboard at the time of the incident, highlighting that they are 'most likely foreigners'.

While RaajjeMV has been unable to confirm the details of the boat, citing witnesses some media outlets have reported that it is presumed to be a Sri Lankan fishing boat.

MNDF said that those that attempted to flee 'have been handed over to police', and taken to Ihavandhoo island in the the same atoll since.

MNDF further advised sea travelers to be cautious of flowting debris due to the arson.