The Indian High Commission in Maldives has issued a statement countering Defense Minister Ghassan Maumoon's claims regarding an alleged unauthorized landing of an Indian Advanced Light Helicopter platform in the Maldives. Minister Ghassan made these remarks during a press conference held at the President's Office on Saturday.
According to Minister Ghassan, he was aware of a military vehicle entering Maldivian airspace without permission, referencing an incident involving an Indian Army helicopter landing in Thimarafushi without authorization. He stated that the National Security Services Committee (241 Committee) had investigated the matter during his tenure as a member of parliament.
However, in response, the Indian High Commission clarified that all Indian aviation platforms in the Maldives have consistently adhered to agreed-upon procedures and operated with due authorization from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). Specifically addressing the incident on October 9, 2019, the High Commission stated that the sortie was conducted with MNDF approval, and the emergency landing at Thimarafushi was prompted by an unforeseen exigency.
"The emergency landing at Thimarafushi was necessitated due to an unforeseen exigency, which was carried out after taking necessary on-ground approvals from the ATC to ensure the safety and security of the platform and crew."
Minister Ghassan emphasized that such incidents would not occur in the future, especially with the withdrawal of Indian troops from the Maldives. He attributed the swift resolution of the matter to the prudent decision-making and prompt action of President Dr. Muizzu.
According to Minister Ghassan, he was aware of a military vehicle entering Maldivian airspace without permission, referencing an incident involving an Indian Army helicopter landing in Thimarafushi without authorization. He stated that the National Security Services Committee (241 Committee) had investigated the matter during his tenure as a member of parliament.
However, in response, the Indian High Commission clarified that all Indian aviation platforms in the Maldives have consistently adhered to agreed-upon procedures and operated with due authorization from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF). Specifically addressing the incident on October 9, 2019, the High Commission stated that the sortie was conducted with MNDF approval, and the emergency landing at Thimarafushi was prompted by an unforeseen exigency.
"The emergency landing at Thimarafushi was necessitated due to an unforeseen exigency, which was carried out after taking necessary on-ground approvals from the ATC to ensure the safety and security of the platform and crew."
— India in Maldives (@HCIMaldives) May 14, 2024
Minister Ghassan emphasized that such incidents would not occur in the future, especially with the withdrawal of Indian troops from the Maldives. He attributed the swift resolution of the matter to the prudent decision-making and prompt action of President Dr. Muizzu.
