The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has announced that it will have operational authority over the helicopter given by India to the Maldives, as well as the non-Indian military crew that will pilot it.
Speaking at a press conference on the Week 14 commitments, Principal Director of Plans, Policy, and Resources Management for the MNDF Colonel Ahmed Mujuthaba Mohamed revealed that discussions are underway regarding the withdrawal of Indian troops from the Maldives. He emphasised that the government has made the decision not to permit any foreign troops to remain stationed in the Maldives beyond May 10.
Moreover, Mujthaba said that the Indian helicopter stationed in Addu City is currently undergoing repairs, and in its place, 26 civilians have arrived in the Maldives with a replacement helicopter. He noted that the familiarisation process is in progress and affirmed that Indian troops will depart as planned. He also clarified that the MNDF will have operational authority of the Indian civilians and vehicles associated with the helicopter.
President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has committed to repatriating Indian troops from the Maldives. He has pledged to withdraw Indian troops from one of the three aviation platforms in the Maldives before March 10, with assurances that troops from the remaining two platforms will be returned by May 10.