The National Integrity Commission (NIC) has launched an investigation into whether the Maldives Customs Service committed any negligence following an incident where two vessels under its custody drifted and collided with a pillar of the Sinamalé Bridge.
The NIC announced its decision to probe the matter in a social media post last night.
"Following reports of two vessels under the custody of Maldives Customs Service drifting and striking a pillar of the Sinamalé Bridge, the Commission has decided to initiate an investigation under Section 37 of Act No. 27/2015. This inquiry will determine if the Maldives Customs Service acted in violation of laws, regulations, or established procedures," the Commission stated.
The two vessels, which dragged their anchors and struck the bridge on August 10, had entered Maldivian waters without authorisation on April 26. Security forces only became aware of their presence a week later while they were anchored near Malé.
A source familiar with the matter told Adhadhu that a decision had been made a month and a half ago to move the vessels to a safe harbour due to fears of such an incident occurring.
The source noted that the relocation was to be carried out under the supervision of the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) and Maldives Ports Limited (MPL), with police assistance to be sought if necessary.
It has also been learned that both vessels lacked functioning navigation lights required for maritime safety, leading to complaints from other seafarers operating in the area.
Sources said the vessels were scheduled to be moved to Thilafushi for secure mooring. The Housing Development Corporation (HDC) had granted the necessary permits for this relocation in July.
The two vessels, identified as MT KG 1 and AL 1, were under Customs custody at the time of the incident. While both are registered in the Republic of Haiti, sources stated that their ownership remains unverified.
