MNDF: Operation changed to 'surface search' for Shuraih

Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) on Thursday revealed that the search operation for Shuraih Hassan, 21, lost at sea has been reduced to a 'surface search'. 

Shuraih was reported missing while octopus hunting with friends near Gulhufalhu at 08:58 am, on December 31, 2021. 

Although the search by Coast Guard Second Squadron is still ongoing, the operation has now been reduced as the chance of finding him alive slims. 

According to MNDF, as 72 hours has passed to him being reported missing, this greatly reduces the chances of finding him alive. Hence, the 'active' search operation has been downgraded to a 'safe' search. 

"Globally in most places, 72 hours is the standard time accepted r as the longest survivability rate in such incidents with missing people," said MNDF.

MNDF urged the public to report any information or if anything out of the ordinary is noticed from the area. 

Shuraih was wearing a grey t-shirt and black shorts when he went missing.