The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) intercepted a dinghy carrying three individuals of Somali origin approximately 10 nautical miles northwest of Fuvahmulah on the morning of December 23.

According to an official statement from the MNDF, the Coast Guard responded to reports of a suspicious vessel and located a skiff boat commonly associated with Somali use. Upon inspection, three men believed to be Somalis were found aboard the dinghy. The vessel was escorted to Fuvahmulah harbour, where both the boat and its occupants were handed over to the Maldives Police Service for further investigation.

The Maldives Police Service confirmed that the individuals had been separated at sea and brought to safety. However, the circumstances surrounding their arrival in Maldivian waters remain unclear at this stage. Authorities have yet to determine their intent or planned destination.

This latest incident echoes a similar event in June, when another dinghy carrying three Somali nationals was reported near the Maldives. Historically, Somali individuals have been found in the region, often linked to piracy activities or cases of drifting vessels. Such occurrences have posed ongoing challenges for authorities, particularly in terms of identification and repatriation efforts.

Both the MNDF and the Police Service have reassured the public that the matter is being handled in accordance with national security protocols.