The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has advised mariners to exercise caution after a cargo vessel sank near Vaavu Atoll's Felidhoo, with some of its cargo reported to be drifting in the surrounding waters.

The MNDF said the cargo vessel, Jazeera Q-10, started sinking about five nautical miles off Felidhoo. A Coast Guard vessel from the Malé Area Command's Second Squadron has been deployed to the area. 

The Coast Guard said the drifting cargo is believed to be located approximately five nautical miles east of Felidhoo and urged vessels transiting the area to remain vigilant.