Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has begun search for a large animal spotted near Maafaru Airport.

Maafaru Council President Mohamed Adnan had publicised footage of a large feline walking alongside the runway area at Maafaru Airport.

Speaking to 'One', some residents from the island said the animal looked like a panther or cheetah. Some residents stated they witnessed it jumping into the sea from a boat.

One resident who spoke to 'One' said that the animal was spotted in the second phase of the airport. Although the residents believe it could be a panther or cheetah, neither MNDF nor Police have confirmed this to be true.

Maafaru Council President Adnan told 'One' on Monday night that the animal was only spotted when it was videoed and has not been seen since. He added that the residents do not seem too concerned about the sighting.