MNDF denies claims of pressure on capsized landing craft captain

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) on Monday denied allegations that the captain of a landing craft that capsized in the Kaadhishoo sea while en route from Malé to Lhaviyani Atoll was pressured to operate the vessel by the Sifainge Welfare Company (SIWEC).

The incident occurred on Wednesday and involved a landing craft operated by SIWEC, a company affiliated with the Maldives military. Responding to queries from a journalist via the official MNDF Telegram group, the force addressed several claims.

According to the journalist’s message, the captain had reportedly refused to sail the craft, citing its condition as unsuitable for the voyage. The journalist also claimed that the captain eventually proceeded under pressure from SIWEC officials.

The MNDF rejected these allegations.

In its response, the MNDF stated that the captain holds sole discretion over the loading and departure of the vessel, based on the vessel’s condition and prevailing weather conditions.

“No one can compel the captain to load or unload the vessel,” the MNDF said.

Further clarifying the incident, the MNDF stated that both the captain and Army Warrant Officer Ali Hamid, who died in the incident, were in the wheelhouse when the vessel capsized. The missing Bangladeshi national was in the engine room at the time. Ali Hamid’s body was later recovered from the wheelhouse.

The MNDF also noted that, based on preliminary information, the vessel capsized suddenly. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.