A devastating fire has completely destroyed the "Holhudhoo Boat" while traveling from Laamu Maavah to Malé, with one person reported missing, according to the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF).

Twenty-five-year-old Ali Mushfiq Mohamed remains unaccounted for, while 17 others, including the captain, have been successfully rescued from the vessel. The boat was carrying a total of 18 passengers when the incident occurred.

The MNDF reports that the fire was particularly intense, engulfing the entire three-deck vessel, which was designed to transport both cargo and passengers. Photos circulating on social media show the boat burnt down to deck level.

The cause of the fire has not yet been disclosed by authorities.