Five Italian nationals have died following a scuba diving accident in the Maldives, according to Italy’s foreign ministry, after a deep cave-diving expedition in Vaavu Atoll went wrong.
Authorities in the Indian Ocean archipelago said one body had been recovered, while search efforts continued for the remaining divers believed to be trapped inside an underwater cave.
Italy’s foreign ministry said the group disappeared during a dive believed to have reached depths of about 50 metres. The University of Genoa confirmed that the victims included marine biology professor Monica Montefalcone, her daughter Giorgia Sommacal, and researchers Muriel Oddenino and Federico Gualtieri.
The Maldives National Defence Force said aircraft, speedboats and coastguard divers had been deployed after the group was reported missing. Officials said the body recovered was found inside a cave, adding that the remaining divers were also believed to be in the same area, which extends to depths of around 60 metres. Local authorities also reported rough weather conditions in Vaavu Atoll at the time of the incident.
READ ALSO: Tourist wins payout after unable to find a sunbed during holiday in Greece
The Maldives, known for its luxury tourism and diving industry, rarely experiences large-scale diving tragedies, though several marine-related tourist deaths have been reported in recent years. Italian officials said an expert diver and diplomatic representatives were assisting local authorities and supporting the victims’ families as recovery operations continue.
