Minister of Homeland Security Ali Ihusan and Commissioner of Police Ahmed Mohamed have met with the family of Police Sergeant Ali Naafiu, who went missing after the cargo supply vessel "Friend 4" sank.

Police stated last night that the meeting was held to share updates on ongoing search operations and to offer comfort and encouragement to the family during this difficult time.

During the visit to the family's residence last Wednesday, Deputy Commissioner of Police Farhad Fikry, Assistant Commissioner of Police Mohamed Jamsheed, and several senior police officers were also in attendance.

Police noted that senior officials met with Sergeant Naafiu's wife, child, and extended family, praying for their strength and offering support.

Minister Ihusan stated that immediately upon receiving news of the incident, MNDF and Police launched search operations that very night using all available resources. He added that details of the meeting were shared with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, who conveyed his prayers for the family to be granted patience and fortitude during this tragedy.

As the vessel sank in waters exceeding a depth of 1,650 meters—inaccessible using domestic equipment—efforts are underway through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to secure foreign assistance.

Commissioner of Police Ahmed Mohamed stated that Sergeant Naafiu acted with noble dedication to save lives and property. Sharing details of efforts undertaken so far, the Commissioner affirmed that authorities will do everything possible and leave no stone unturned in the search operation.

Furthermore, the Commissioner noted that a specialized team has been dispatched from Malé to investigate the incident, and necessary support is being provided to the family.

The incident occurred on the night of the 5th of this month as "Friend 4," which departed Thilafushi loaded with cargo on the 2nd of the month, was traveling from Th. Madifushi to Huvadhoo Atoll. While several individuals were rescued, the vessel's captain Mohamed Hamdhoon (35, Th. Madifushi), Police Sergeant Ali Naafiu (33), and MNDF Sergeant Ibrahim Ahmed (39) went missing. Eight days have passed since the incident, and search operations remain active.

MNDF stated yesterday that as of 6:00 PM, an area of 9,920 square nautical miles by air and 2,790 square nautical miles by sea had been searched, covering the Huvadhoo Sea as well as reefs across GA. Atoll and L. Atoll.

According to MNDF, the vessel sank at a depth of over 1,600 meters—a depth unreachable by standard submarines. However, round-the-clock search operations continue utilizing modern UAV drones and Coast Guard vessels.

MNDF added that taking into account wind and sea currents, search operations across the entire Huvadhoo Sea area are scheduled to be completed today.