Sergeant First Class Mohamed Mahdhee of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), who died after falling ill during a high-risk rescue mission to locate missing Italian tourists, was laid to rest yesterday with full military honors.
Hundreds gathered to pay their final respects to the late military diver, whose funeral prayers and viewing were held at the Islamic Centre. Among those attending were President Mohamed Muizzu, Cabinet ministers, senior state officials, MNDF personnel, family members and members of the public.
Mahdhee became critically ill while participating in a specialized diving operation launched after a group of Italian tourists went missing near Alimathaa Resort earlier this month.
According to the MNDF Coast Guard’s Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, authorities received reports at around 1:45 p.m. on the 14th regarding missing divers in the area. A search and rescue mission was immediately launched.
Later that day, one of the tourists was discovered deceased inside a cave approximately 60 meters underwater. Following the discovery, the MNDF initiated a high-risk recovery operation involving eight military divers.
During the mission, Mahdhee developed decompression sickness, commonly known as “the bends,” and was later admitted to ADK Hospital for treatment. He later passed away while receiving medical care.
Following funeral prayers, Mahdhee’s casket was transported to Aau Saharaa in a specially designated military vehicle. Upon arrival at the cemetery, a ceremonial seven-gun salute was carried out in his honor.
President Muizzu also presented the national flag that had draped Mahdhee’s casket to his family during the burial ceremony.
The late Mahdhee’s death has drawn an outpouring of grief and tributes nationwide, with many praising his courage and sacrifice during the rescue mission.
