The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Coast Guard Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) received reports at approximately 13:45 on Thursday that five Italian divers had gone missing while diving in a designated diving area in Vaavu Atoll. Search operations by sea and air were launched immediately with assistance from a safari vessel, the Vaavu Atoll Police Station, and Alimatha Resort.
According to the MNDF, the body of one diver was recovered underwater at approximately 18:13 on Thursday by divers from the safari vessel assisting in the operation. Authorities stated that the body was discovered at a depth of around 60 metres outside a cave where the remaining four divers are believed to be located.
The MNDF revealed that the cave is approximately 200 feet long and situated in an area significantly deeper than standard recreational diving sites. Officials further noted that the cave entrance begins at a depth of around 45 metres and extends to approximately 60 metres at the exit, requiring specialised equipment and professional diving expertise for the rescue mission.
As the operation continued, President Muizzu personally travelled to Vaavu Atoll to oversee the ongoing search and rescue efforts for the four remaining missing divers. Upon arriving at the operation site, the President was briefed by MNDF officials on the operational plan and the progress of the mission so far.
According to the MNDF, rescue teams involved in the operation have been divided into groups, while the first search dive has now been completed. During the dive, rescuers reached the cave entrance, marked the location, and conducted an initial assessment of the area. Preparations are currently underway for a second dive despite adverse weather conditions.
The MNDF has described the operation as a high-risk mission, with Coast Guard Ship Ghazee remaining deployed at the scene to coordinate ongoing efforts.
Accompanying the President during the visit were Minister of Homeland Security, Labour and Technology Ali Ihusaan, Minister of Foreign Affairs Iruthisham Adam and Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen.
During the visit, President Muizzu extended his deepest condolences to the families of the victims, as well as to the government and people of Italy. In a separate statement shared on social media, the President also conveyed condolences to Italian President Sergio Mattarella and expressed deep sadness over the incident.
The President stated that the thoughts and prayers of the Maldivian people remain with the missing individuals and their families. Reaffirming that the operation is being treated as a top priority by the Maldivian government, President Muizzu also thanked the Italian government for the cooperation extended during the ongoing search and recovery efforts.
