Search Intensifies for Missing Teen in Addu as Criticism Grows Over Aircraft Choice

The search for 18-year-old Mohamed Naeesh Nasr, missing since 21 December while diving for lobsters off Gan in Addu City, continues. MNDF has covered 279 sq nautical miles by air, 300 sq nautical miles by sea, and a 600-meter area by diving. Controversy arose as MNDF used an aircraft from the Maldivian Aviation Academy instead of the India-gifted Dornier aircraft, aligning with President Muizzu's policy to reduce Indian military involvement. The MDP criticized this, noting 3,452 people were rescued in 1,996 joint operations. MNDF did not provide a reason for not using the Dornier. The President's Office clarified no halt to Dornier operations was ordered.

The search for 18-year-old Mohamed Naeesh Nasr, missing since 21 December while diving for lobsters off Gan in Addu City, continues. MNDF has covered 279 sq nautical miles by air, 300 sq nautical miles by sea, and a 600-meter area by diving. Controversy arose as MNDF used an aircraft from the Maldivian Aviation Academy instead of the India-gifted Dornier aircraft, aligning with President Muizzu's policy to reduce Indian military involvement. The MDP criticized this, noting 3,452 people were rescued in 1,996 joint operations. MNDF did not provide a reason for not using the Dornier. The President's Office clarified no halt to Dornier operations was ordered.

The search for 18-year-old Mohamed Naeesh Nasr, missing since 21 December while diving for lobsters off Gan in Addu City, continues. MNDF has covered 279 sq nautical miles by air, 300 sq nautical miles by sea, and a 600-meter area by diving. Controversy arose as MNDF used an aircraft from the Maldivian Aviation Academy instead of the India-gifted Dornier aircraft, aligning with President Muizzu's policy to reduce Indian military involvement. The MDP criticized this, noting 3,452 people were rescued in 1,996 joint operations. MNDF did not provide a reason for not using the Dornier. The President's Office clarified no halt to Dornier operations was ordered.

This story involves 1 source and may affect public understanding of search and rescue / mndf.