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Male' city Mayor Adam Azim has questioned how two foreign boats entered Maldivian waters and remained near Male' for several days without the authorities knowing about them.
Mariyam Adheela
Mayor Azim raised the concern following an incident in which the boats drifted and crashed into the Sinamale' Bridge
Male’: Male’ city Mayor Adam Azim has questioned how two large foreign boats were able to enter Maldivian waters and stay near Male’ for several days without the relevant authorities being aware of their presence.
The mayor raised the concern following an incident in which the boats drifted and crashed into the Sinamale’ Bridge.
In a post on social media today, Azim questioned the purpose of the expensive drones, maritime surveillance equipment and weapons worth millions of dollars purchased by the country.
He said it was concerning that two large foreign boats could enter Maldivian waters without the relevant authorities knowing about them.
Azim said the boats had been anchored near Male’ for several days when the bridge accident occurred.
He said it was not acceptable for the authorities to remain unaware of the boats.
“This needs to be investigated, and the public needs to be clearly informed about what happened and how it happened,” the mayor said.
He also questioned the country’s ability to protect its waters.
“The country has failed, and we have reached this point because we have handed the country over to people who lack care,” Azim said.
The two boats that crashed into a pillar of the Sinamale’ Bridge last night later sank.
The incident has raised concerns over how the boats entered the area and remained near Male’ without being detected.
Infrastructure Minister Dr Abdulla Muthalib said the bridge did not suffer major structural damage in the incident.
He said the bridge had sustained some damage to its railings.
Muthalib said the damage will be repaired according to the required standards.
