Authorities and local residents are continuing efforts to locate Zakariyya Mohamed, a 79-year-old man from Gadhdhoo in Gaafu Dhaalu Atoll, who went missing yesterday.

According to the Gadhdhoo Council, Zakariyya was last seen around 10:30 p.m. on Wednesday as he departed from the agricultural island of Gan to return to Gadhdhoo. He was reportedly wearing a black suit and a blue T-shirt. His last known location was near Gan, a commonly known area within Gadhdhoo.

Zakariyya, travelled to Gan, a short boat ride of five to ten minutes, for farming activities. Residents say it is a routine journey made daily by many, including elderly individuals like Zakariyya, to tend to crops and harvest produce.

Residents told One Online that Zakariyya typically returned to Gadhdhoo by early afternoon to attend prayers. His absence was first noticed when he failed to return as usual, prompting concern and the launch of a search operation.

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), Maldives Police Service, local council, and island residents are jointly involved in the search. However, there has been no sign of Zakariyya or the dinghy he was travelling in.

Search efforts remain ongoing as hope continues for his safe return.