A massive sea and air search operation is underway following the capsizing and sinking of a landing craft near K. Gaafaru. Despite extensive search efforts by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), two expatriate crew members remain unaccounted for.
The vessel, identified as the Hawks Voyager—owned by The Hawks company—had departed from K. Thilafushi before encountering severe difficulties. According to the Maldives Police Service, authorities were alerted around 8:48 AM on Friday morning that the landing craft was taking on water and sinking near Gaafaru.
A total of 10 people were aboard at the time of the incident, consisting of two Maldivians and eight foreign nationals. Eight individuals were successfully rescued and brought to K. Gaafaru, where they received medical attention for minor injuries. The two individuals who remain missing have been identified as Bangladeshi nationals.
According to an MNDF Information Officer, the ongoing operation is being conducted jointly by the MNDF Coast Guard and the MNDF Air Corps. Search crews have covered over 2,747 square nautical miles by sea and air. Additionally, MNDF Coast Guard divers have conducted underwater dive operations in the specific area where the vessel went down.
Key maritime assets deployed in the operation include the Coast Guard Ship Imaduddin alongside a Fast Interceptor Craft.
The incident occurred during a spell of severe weather and rough seas, following warnings issued by relevant authorities advising mariners to exercise caution. Reports indicate that the Hawks Voyager was taking on water when a large wave hit, causing the vessel to capsize and sink.
