Police have launched an investigation into two Maldivian pilots who were repatriated following their detention in the United Arab Emirates over an alleged plot to crash a Flydubai flight travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, Israel.
Police told Adhadhu that officers met the two pilots at Velana International Airport (VIA) immediately upon their arrival from the UAE to conduct questioning.
Authorities stated that no decision has yet been made regarding legal action or whether the two individuals will be placed under formal arrest at this stage.
The pilots were returned to the Maldives after being held in UAE custody for 12 days, during which they were denied fundamental rights, including access to legal counsel and communication with their families.
It is understood that the two individuals are the most recent recruits among six Maldivian pilots currently employed by Flydubai.
The Maldivian Embassy in the UAE notified the families of their detention on October 8. Prior to this notification, UAE authorities had not disclosed any information regarding their status or whereabouts, even to the diplomatic mission.
The incident involved flight FZ1073, which was carrying 182 Israeli nationals. The co-pilot allegedly attempted to crash the aircraft by attacking the captain with an emergency axe located in the cockpit.
The struggle caused the aircraft to lose control and plunge approximately 17,000 feet (5,180 meters) in a short time. However, the Indian captain managed to open the cockpit door, allowing passengers and crew to intervene and subdue the assailant. Two additional pilots on board regained control of the aircraft and landed it safely.
