A cargo boat has sunk after colliding into the base of a lighthouse in Manadhoo island of Noonu atoll.

“Falcon” had sunk near Manadhoo island after setting off to Maalhendhoo island from capital Male' City. The vessel, reportedly damaged, is flooded and has submerged in the water along with the “expensive” merchandise onboard.

Noting that the incident was reported at around 4:30am on Sunday, Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) said that officers from its Northern Area Command were dispatched to the scene immediately.

MNDF worked with residents of Manadhoo island, to transfer the crew members to the island.

RaajjeMV understands that work is now being carried out to withdraw cargo from the vessel.

Manadhoo island’s council member Ali Rasheed reported that island residents are tirelessly working alongside rescue officers to refloat the vessel.

No injuries had been reported following the sea incident.