Spanish Tourist Loses Leg in Severe Attack Near Kooddoo

On April 11-12, 2026, a Spanish tourist swimming near Kooddoo in Gaafu Alif Atoll, Maldives, experienced a severe shark attack that resulted in life-altering injuries. The 31-year-old victim was swimming at a reef location near a fish-processing plant when the incident occurred during what was intended to be a honeymoon dive trip. The attack inflicted catastrophic damage to the victim's leg, with extensive trauma to soft tissue and major blood vessels. Following immediate transfer to GA. Atoll Hospital, the victim was airlifted to ADK Hospital in Malé where surgical amputation became necessary due to the severity of vascular injury and tissue loss. The victim required emergency massive transfusion protocols to address critical blood loss and remained hospitalized on life support in a medically unstable condition. The attack location, colloquially known as "Shark Alley," is situated adjacent to a fish-processing facility where sharks naturally congregate to scavenge discarded waste. Local experts noted that approximately one week prior to the incident, no fish waste had been discharged from the facility. The combination of heightened shark presence in the area and potential hunger state of the animals when the swimmers entered the water may have triggered aggressive predatory behavior. While Spinner sharks are known to populate the area, the nature and severity of injuries raised the possibility of involvement by a Bull shark or multiple sharks in a feeding response. As of May 2026, the victim remained hospitalized at ADK Hospital, medically stable following surgery, and awaiting clearance to return to Spain for continued recovery and rehabilitation.