Five Italian scuba divers, including a mother and daughter, died during a deep cave diving expedition in the Maldives, according to Maldivian and Italian authorities.
The accident happened Thursday in the Vaavu Atoll, where the group was exploring an underwater cave about 200 feet deep. Officials said one body has been recovered, while four others are believed to remain trapped inside the cave.
Maldives National Defence Force teams launched a difficult recovery mission but suspended operations Friday because of dangerous weather conditions. Authorities described the effort as a “high-risk operation” requiring specialized diving equipment.
Victims Identified
Italian officials identified the victims as:
- Monica Montefalcone
- Giorgia Sommacal
- Muriel Oddenino
- Federico Gualtieri
- Gianluca Benedetti
Italian authorities said the divers were exploring caves nearly 50 meters below the surface when the tragedy occurred. Investigators are still working to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Italy, Maldives Respond
Maldivian presidential spokesperson Mohamed Hussain Shareef offered condolences to Italy and said recovering the remaining divers remains a top priority.
The Italian Embassy in Colombo is assisting the victims’ families and supporting about 20 other Italian nationals who were part of the diving expedition aboard the vessel Duke of York.
Vaavu Atoll is known for its popular diving sites and underwater caves, attracting experienced divers from around the world.
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