A fire broke out at a privately operated petrol shed in the harbour area of Sh. Funadhoo early on Saturday morning, causing injuries and property damage before being brought under control around midday.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu expressed concern over the incident in a social media post, wishing a speedy recovery to those injured and hoping those affected by damage would return to normal life quickly. He thanked the Maldives National Defence Force, police, fire and rescue teams from Funadhoo Airport, Maafaru Airport and JW Marriott, Sh. Atoll Hospital, the National Cadet Corps, the Funadhoo Council, government agencies and local residents for their immediate response.
The National Disaster Management Authority reported that 18 people were taken to hospital with varying degrees of injuries. Some have since been discharged. Five houses were affected by the fire, and 33 people were relocated to temporary accommodation as a precaution.
The blaze started around 8:30 a.m. and was contained by approximately noon. Authorities continue to assess the full extent of the damage and support those displaced.
The President noted that he learned of the incident with deep sadness and prayed for the safety of the nation and its people.
