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Incident at sea missing divers / search operation Vaavu Atoll Impact 9.0/10 3 min read
Search Continues for Four Missing Italian Divers as Investigation Intensifies

Search Continues for Four Missing Italian Divers as Investigation Intensifies

Authorities continue search for four Italian divers missing after a deep cave diving expedition near Vaavu Atoll. One diver was found dead, and four remain believed inside the submerged cave system at depths of 50-60 metres. The Maldives Police Service and Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) lead rescue efforts, which have been complicated by strong currents and poor visibility. An MNDF rescue diver died from decompression-related complications during the operation. The liveaboard vessel 'Duke of York' has reportedly had its operating licence suspended pending investigation. Investigators are expected to examine dive safety procedures, certifications, and equipment. Italian authorities have opened a parallel investigation.

Authorities continue search for four Italian divers missing after a deep cave diving expedition near Vaavu Atoll. One diver was found dead, and four remain believed inside the submerged cave system at depths of 50-60 metres. The Maldives Police Service and Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) lead rescue efforts, which have been complicated by strong currents and poor visibility. An MNDF rescue diver died from decompression-related complications during the operation. The liveaboard vessel 'Duke of York' has reportedly had its operating licence suspended pending investigation. Investigators are expected to examine dive safety procedures, certifications, and equipment. Italian authorities have opened a parallel investigation.

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May 16, 2026

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Authorities continue search for four Italian divers missing after a deep cave diving expedition near Vaavu Atoll. One diver was found dead, and four remain believed inside the submerged cave system at depths of 50-60 metres. The Maldives Police Service and Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) lead rescue efforts, which have been complicated by strong currents and poor visibility. An MNDF rescue diver died from decompression-related complications during the operation. The liveaboard vessel 'Duke of York' has reportedly had its operating licence suspended pending investigation. Investigators are expected to examine dive safety procedures, certifications, and equipment. Italian authorities have opened a parallel investigation.

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