MNDF continues search for 41-yo missing after sea accident

Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) has revealed that the search for a missing man after a dinghy and speedboat collided near Dhonfanu island, Baa atoll, is still ongoing.

Nasrullah Abdulla, 41 and native to Eydhafushi island in Baa atoll has been missing since the sea accident was reported to authorities a little past 7pm on Thursday.

The accident reportedly occurred when a dinghy that set off from Dharavandhoo island of Baa atoll, collided into a speedboat that belongs to Eydhafushi in the same atoll.

While the dinghy is to have sunk after the collision, three out of the four people onboard were boarded onto the speedboat. MNDF’s Coastguard began search for the fourth person, Abdulla, a few hours later along with the help from a Maldives Police Service (MPS) speedboat, speedboats from private parties as well as nearby resorts.

Authorities are yet unsure where Abdulla went missing, however, they predicted him to have gone missing near a lagoon as they found fishing equipment and a few supplies on the dinghy at the time of the collision, afloat in the region.

Officers have since assured the public that the search is ongoing without a pause and that they are using all resources within reach, in the search.

MNDF has also appealed on the public to reach out if any information is attained, through toll free number 191.

MNDF revealed on Friday morning that a team of divers are active in the search via sea route, and that they have also begun a search via air. A special operation by the MNDF Northern Area CG has also been launched in the efforts to find Abdulla.

Authorities have since said that their hopes are high in finding the 41-year-old.