Preliminary search efforts by the Maldives National Defence Force for four tourists who went missing during a diving excursion expedited subsequent recovery work conducted by a foreign team of expert divers, the Chief of Defence Force, Major General Ibrahim Hilmy, said.
Speaking on the public broadcaster’s ‘Raajje Miadhu’ programme to outline the military’s response to various incidents, Major General Hilmy confirmed that the bodies of the missing individuals had been located. The discovery resulted from a systematic joint operation involving the defence force’s Coast Guard, the Maldives Police Service, and an expert diving team arranged by the Italian government.
The specialised nature of the underwater efforts required military divers, rather than civilian recreational divers, to lead the operation, Brigadier General Mohamed Saleem, the commandant of the Coast Guard, said, adding that the military views the mission as a vital national duty.
"During these operations, our divers descend in accordance with specific strategic plans and stringent safety measures,” Brigadier General Saleem stated. “The operation is not conducted in a manner that forces personnel into taking undue risks."
Major General Hilmy Hilmy reiterated that military divers operate exclusively under designated plans, with no personnel being compelled to undertake unsafe actions. The broader mission also utilised specialised equipment supplied by international partners.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu visited the site to receive direct updates, identify required operational assistance, and boost morale. "The President also visited the operational area. His Excellency arrived on-site to observe the ongoing efforts," Major General Hilmy stated.