A launch travelling from Lh. Maafilaafushi to Malé partially sank near Hulhumalé this evening, with all passengers rescued safely, according to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).
The MNDF said the vessel was carrying students who had completed the National Service Initial Training Course-2. The launch reportedly began taking on water before partially submerging, forcing passengers into the sea.
Rescue operations were launched shortly after the incident, and all passengers were later brought safely to Malé.
Authorities said approximately 60 students were onboard at the time.
Videos circulating on social media showed passengers wearing life jackets while floating near the partially submerged vessel.
The cause of the incident remains unclear.
Police said the incident was reported at around 18:04 this evening..
