An expatriate worker has died following a tragic workplace accident at the Waste Management Corporation Limited (WAMCO) site in Thilafushi, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
The victim has been identified as Amin Miya, a 24-year-old Bangladeshi national employed at the waste management facility. The fatal incident took place on Monday afternoon while heavy machinery was being used to clear garbage at the dump site.
Incident Occurred During Routine Waste Clearing
According to police, Amin was struck by the metal teeth of an excavator that was actively moving waste. The impact reportedly caused him to fall in the same direction as the shifting garbage. His body was subsequently covered by trash, leaving him unseen at the site.
Investigators say it is still unclear whether the excavator operator noticed the incident at the time it occurred. CCTV footage reviewed by police reportedly shows the excavator hitting Amin, after which operations at the site continued without interruption.
This detail has raised serious questions about safety procedures and monitoring at the facility. How could such a grave incident go unnoticed in a busy industrial work zone?
Operator Arrested as Investigation Continues
Police confirmed that the excavator was operated by a Sri Lankan national, who has since been arrested in connection with the case. Further investigations are underway to determine potential negligence, safety lapses, and accountability.
Amin was reported missing on Tuesday after failing to return or make contact. His body was discovered the following day, Wednesday, buried beneath a pile of garbage at the same site where he had been working.
Renewed Focus on Worker Safety
The incident has once again drawn attention to occupational safety standards at high-risk work environments, particularly those involving heavy machinery and migrant labor. Workplace accidents involving expatriate workers remain a sensitive issue in the Maldives, often highlighting gaps in supervision, safety training, and enforcement.
Authorities have not yet announced whether additional charges will be filed or if WAMCO will face regulatory action pending the outcome of the investigation.
