A supply boat travelling from Laamu Atoll to Huvadhoo Atoll sank late on Wednesday night, leaving three people missing despite ongoing rescue efforts.

The vessel, Friend 4, from Th. Madifushi, was carrying stone and sand when rough seas caused waves to flood the boat. The captain requested assistance, prompting teams from the Maldives Police Service and the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) to respond.

Rescuers first evacuated the remaining passengers before attempting to keep the vessel afloat using pumps. However, the boat eventually sank while salvage efforts were underway.

Eight people were on board at the time of the incident. Three remain missing, including Police Officer Ali Nafiu of N. Manadhoo, One has confirmed. The identity of the missing MNDF officer has not yet been officially confirmed.

The MNDF said it received the distress report at 10:37 p.m., when the vessel was about 2.96 nautical miles outside the entrance to Huvadhoo Atoll. Search and rescue operations are continuing.