Authorities say the group went missing while exploring underwater caves in rough weather conditions.
Five Italian tourists have died in a scuba diving accident in the Maldives after reportedly attempting to explore caves deep underwater in Vaavu Atoll. Officials said the divers entered the water on Thursday morning but failed to resurface.
The Maldives military said one body was recovered from a cave about 60 metres underwater, while the remaining four divers are believed to still be inside the same area. Rescue teams with specialised diving equipment were deployed as authorities described the operation as extremely dangerous.
Police said rough sea conditions may have contributed to the tragedy. A yellow weather warning had already been issued for passenger boats and fishermen in the area, located about 100 kilometres south of the capital, Malé.
The University of Genoa confirmed that the victims included a marine biology professor, her daughter and two young researchers. The institution expressed condolences to the families in a statement.
The Maldives is one of the world’s top diving destinations, known for its coral reefs and marine tourism. Although diving accidents are uncommon, several fatal incidents have been reported in recent years.
Authorities are continuing recovery operations as investigations into the cause of the accident continue.