Five Italian nationals have died while scuba diving in the Maldives, after a deep-water cave expedition ended in tragedy. The group had been attempting to explore underwater caves in the Vaavu Atoll at a depth of around 165 feet, Italy's foreign ministry said on Thursday.
Officials have not released the identities of the victims or confirmed the cause of the incident. Local reports said the group were tourists travelling aboard the Duke of York, a liveaboard diving vessel operating in the area, according to the Mirror.
Details of the Incident
The publication reports that the group disappeared during a dive near Alimathaa. They had entered the water in the morning and were reported missing by crew members after failing to resurface by midday. Weather conditions at the dive site were said to have been poor at the time of the tragedy.
Investigation and Support
The ministry confirmed that an investigation had been launched by Maldivian authorities. It also stated that the Italian Embassy in Sri Lanka is in contact with the victims' families to offer consular support. One of those who perished is believed to be a researcher from Genoa, according to Il Sole 24 Ore.
The Vaavu Atoll is a popular diving spot known for its challenging underwater caves. This incident highlights the risks associated with deep diving in such environments.
