Landing craft overturning: Deceased identified as Ali Hamid, a soldier with 27 years of service

The deceased in the landing craft overturning at Kaashidhoo Kandu (Kaashidhoo Sea) has been identified as a soldier with 27 years of service, Ali Hamid.

In a message to the media, Maldives National Defense Force (MNDF) said the landing craft, which overturned at Kaashidhoo Kandu, belonged to Sifainge Welfare Company (SIWEC).

According to MNDF, SIWEC’s ‘LC 308’ was en route to Lhaviyani Atoll from Male’ with five aboard: three soldiers and two foreigners.

All five were rescued and transported to Lhaviyani Atoll Hospital for treatment. Ali Hamid had already been dead when he was taken to the hospital, MNDF added.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu posted a message of condolence on X following Hamid’s death. In this regard, the President noted that Hamid, a Warrant Officer Grade Two at MNDF who had served in the Maldivian military for 27 years, had passed away while on duty.

He expressed deep sadness following Hamid’s passing and prayed to Almighty to bless his soul and patience for his family.

MNDF said they received the report of the landing craft overturning at approximately 10:30am this morning.

The authority detailed that two were reported missing after the incident, Hamid and a foreigner. Efforts to locate the foreigner are still ongoing.