London

Actress Sexually Assaulted During Massage: UK Court Labels Attacker as Maldivian, Name Sparks Doubt

A man identified in UK court as Maldivian, Sundaralingam Koodalingam, was sentenced to four years in prison for sexually assaulting a famous actress during a massage at Rupert Jade Thai Massage in Soho on March 29, 2023. However, his name does not conform to Maldivian naming conventions, and Maldivian authorities have not confirmed his nationality. The victim described the ordeal as devastating. Koodalingam moved to the UK in 2021 on a sponsored visa.

UK Secretary of State Pays Courtesy Call on President Muizzu, Talks Future Cooperation

UK Secretary of State David Lammy paid a courtesy call on Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu in London on July 16, 2025. They discussed bilateral cooperation in fisheries, climate change adaptation, renewable energy, and education. Both reaffirmed commitment to strengthen ties since official relations were established on July 26, 1965.

From Diplomacy to Dormitory: President Muizzu Gives Rosemont Back to Maldivian Students

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has reinstated the property at No. 9 Rosemont Avenue, London as the official premises of the Maldivian Students' Association-UK (MSA-UK), effective immediately. The property had been repurposed in 2019 for diplomatic functions by the Maldivian High Commission. During his visit to the UK, President Muizzu also engaged with Maldivian students in Leeds, hosting a luncheon to discuss their academic experiences and well-being.

Singapore Airlines Flight Makes Emergency Landing in Bangkok Due to Turbulence

A Singapore Airlines Boeing 777 flight from London to Singapore diverted to Bangkok on Tuesday after severe turbulence. One passenger died and over 20 were injured. The aircraft descended from 37,000 to 31,000 feet in about three minutes. Over 10 ambulances met the plane, and injured were taken to Samitivej Srinakarin Hospital. Singapore Airlines is investigating the incident. The article also mentions a recent rise in turbulence-related emergencies, citing similar incidents on Lufthansa, Hawaiian Airlines, and Delta flights.

Maldives’ Underwater Tunnel Named Best Stand Design at WTM London

The Maldives' 'Underwater Tunnel' exhibit at the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2023 won the 'Best Stand Design over 150 m2' award. The stand featured an experiential zone, presentation area, and underwater tunnel walkway showcasing marine life. Thoyyib Mohamed, CEO of MMPRC, accepted the award. WTM London, held from November 6-8, 2023, is a global travel industry event with approximately 5,000 exhibitors from 182 countries and over 51,000 participants. The Maldives delegation included 181 delegates from 93 companies. The award judges included Paul Richer, Helen Roberts, and James Campion.

Virgin Atlantic Starts Direct Flights From London to Malé