MNDF diver remembered after death in Italian divers' search operation
Mahudhee was among the lead personnel involved in the rescue effort.
Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahudhee of the Maldives National Defence Force has been remembered by colleagues, officials and members of the public following his death during a search operation for missing divers near Vaavu Atoll.
Mahudhee died on Saturday at the age of 44 after his condition deteriorated while participating in a diving operation connected to the search for four missing Italian tourists.
The incident involving the divers occurred near Alimatha in Vaavu Atoll, where five individuals went missing during a dive. Authorities have so far recovered one body, while search operations continue for the remaining four.
According to officials, the group had descended to a depth of approximately 60 metres, exceeding the 30-metre recreational diving limit permitted in the Maldives.
Mahudhee was among the lead personnel involved in the rescue effort.
Ali Ihusan said Mahudhee was among the most experienced divers in the country and had participated in thousands of dives during his service.
The minister stated that Mahudhee had previously taken part in operations involving depths of up to 70 metres.
Ihusan, who said he underwent military training alongside Mahudhee, described him as a capable serviceman who carried out difficult operations under challenging conditions.
“Search and rescue divers face perils that most people can hardly imagine. Their true work begins when conditions are at their worst and the danger is at its peak,” Ihusan said.
“These individuals prioritise their national duty without hesitation, placing their own lives on the line to ensure the safety and protection of others,” he added.
Messages shared on social media also described Mahudhee as someone who regularly assisted others and maintained close relationships with colleagues and members of the community.
One social media user wrote: “Our prayer is for him to be granted the status of a martyr.”
