A Maldivian rescue diver has died while taking part in a high-risk operation to recover the bodies of five Italian divers who went missing during a scuba diving expedition in the Maldives, according to international media reports.
Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahdhee collapsed during the search operation and was rushed to hospital in critical condition, where he later died, a Maldivian government spokesperson told the BBC.
The five Italians had reportedly entered the water on Thursday at Vaavu Atoll, approximately 100km south of the capital Male, while attempting to explore underwater caves at depths of around 50 metres. They were reported missing after failing to resurface.
Authorities believe the incident may be the deadliest single scuba diving accident in Maldives history. So far, one body has reportedly been recovered from a cave located around 60 metres underwater.
According to officials, eight rescue divers had entered the water during Saturday’s operation. Upon resurfacing, the team realised Mahdhee was missing and immediately re-entered the water, later finding him unconscious.
The Maldives military has described the operation as extremely dangerous due to rough sea conditions and poor weather.
Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu visited Vaavu Atoll on Saturday to observe the ongoing rescue efforts.
Among the five Italian victims were reportedly members of a team linked to the University of Genoa, including ecology professor Monica Montefalcone, her daughter and researchers. Another victim was a diving instructor and boat operations manager.
Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani expressed condolences and said the tragedy had united Italy and the Maldives in grief. (Newswire)