A fisherman who went missing from a fishing vessel off the southern coast of Haa Dhaalu Hon'daafushi early this morning was found on the island's beach following a search operation launched by the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

MNDF stated that the Coast Guard received a report at 4:05 a.m. that a crew member from the fishing vessel Bahuru had gone missing. The Northern Area Command's Coast Guard First Squadron immediately launched a search operation, with members of the public also joining the search using dinghies.

The missing fisherman was found at around 5:55 a.m. on the beach of Hon'daafushi by members of the public involved in the search. He was taken to Hanimaadhoo Health Centre at 5:59 a.m. for treatment, where he is reported to be in stable condition.

The MNDF thanked the Coast Guard First Squadron and members of the public who assisted in the search and rescue operation.