The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has rescued three individuals aboard a boat transporting resort waste to Kaafu Thilafushi ran aground.

The vessel ran aground near Noonu Kuda Rah and began taking on water.

According to MNDF, the Northern Area Command Coast Guard received a distress call at 11:24 p.m. on Friday. The vessel, which was carrying a Maldivian national and two foreigners, was en route from a resort in Haa Alifu Atoll when it encountered the incident.

The Coast Guard promptly dispatched a harbourcraft to the scene and located the three crew members. They were safely evacuated to Noonu Holhudhoo at 8:45 a.m. on Saturday.

MNDF reported that the vessel had sustained extensive damage after taking on significant water.