Baa Atoll Council has denied reports claiming that Guinness World Records fined the council for violating event regulations, describing the story as false and irresponsible.

A Maldives newspaper had reported that Guinness imposed a fine ranging from £5,000 to £10,000 on the Baa Atoll Council for allegedly distributing medals bearing the Guinness name to event participants without proper authorization.

In a statement issued today, the Baa Atoll Council refuted the report, saying that no such fine had been imposed or communicated by Guinness.

The council described the publication as “a highly irresponsible and disgraceful act”, emphasizing that it has caused confusion among participants and the public.

The statement read that the council confirms that Guinness has not imposed any fine, nor given any indication that might jeopardize the integrity or honor up to this date. 

The council added that it is taking steps to pursue legal action in response to the newspaper’s false reporting.

Earlier in October, Maldives officially set a new Guinness World Record for the most people snorkeling simultaneously during the Baani Event held on 18 October 2025 in Baa Atoll.