The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has issued a warning after the famous shipwreck in Vaavu Atoll detached from the reef and began drifting in open waters.

According to MNDF, the vessel is currently moving northwest of Vaavu Atoll and is expected to drift toward Alihuras Kandu. The authorities have urged vessels traveling in the area to exercise caution.

MNDF specifically advised those travelling at night to pay extra attention due to the increased risk posed by the drifting wreck, which could be difficult to spot in low visibility.

The shipwreck, a well-known diving site, had long been lodged on the reef and served as a point of interest for tourists. Its sudden movement now poses a navigation hazard, especially for nighttime marine travel.