A Maldivian man who went missing after a cargo boat sank off the coast of Laamu Olhuveli early Thursday morning has been found alive.

The vessel, identified as Udhares, was travelling from Malé City to Gaafu Alifu Vilingili, with 13 people on board, including two Maldivians and 11 expatriates, sank on a reef near Olhuveli.1

The incident was reported to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre at approximately 01:21 a.m..

While 12 individuals were rescued, Ismail Afeef was initially reported missing, prompting a joint search-and-rescue operation by the MNDF and the Maldives Police Service. MNDF later confirmed that Afeef was found alive, floating in the water while holding onto a wooden plank. No further details were provided regarding his condition.

Police earlier stated that one expatriate worker had swum to Six Senses Laamu, while the remaining individuals were rescued by a vessel from the resort. All 12 rescued persons were reported to be safe.

Authorities have also issued an advisory to vessels in the area to remain vigilant for cargo from the sunken boat, which is believed to be drifting west of Olhuveli.