A Maldivian military diver has died during a dangerous operation to recover five Italian scuba divers trapped in an underwater cave.
The Maldives National Defence Force confirmed that the diver died while assisting in the recovery mission in Vaavu Atoll, where five Italian nationals disappeared during a deep-sea diving expedition.
Officials said the victims went missing on Thursday while exploring a cave about 50 metres underwater. One body has since been recovered, while four others are still believed to be trapped inside the cave, which stretches roughly 200 feet in length.
Authorities described the recovery mission as a “very dangerous, high-risk operation”. Search efforts were temporarily suspended due to poor weather conditions.
Among the victims were marine scientist Monica Montefalcone, her daughter Giorgia Sommacal, researcher Muriel Oddenino, marine biologist Federico Gualtieri, and diving instructor Gianluca Benedetti.
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The Italian government has dispatched diplomatic officials to the Maldives, while support is being provided to other Italian nationals involved in the expedition.
The tragedy has shocked both Italy and the Maldives, highlighting the risks associated with deep underwater cave diving operations.