Five Italians have died in a scuba diving accident in the Maldives, according to the foreign ministry in Rome. The divers were believed to have drowned while exploring caves at a depth of 50 meters (164ft) in Vaavu Atoll. Among the victims were members of a University of Genoa research team, including professor of ecology Monica Montefalcone, her daughter Giorgia Sommacal, two researchers, and their diving instructor, Gianluca Benedetti. One body has been located in a cave approximately 60 meters underwater, while the search for the remaining four continues, described as very high risk by local authorities.
Officials stated that divers with specialized equipment have been sent to the scene. Italy's foreign ministry confirmed it is working closely with the Maldivian authorities on search efforts. Additionally, about 20 Italian nationals aboard the Duke of York yacht, from which the divers departed, are safe and receiving support from the Italian embassy in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The situation is exacerbated by rough weather conditions, prompting warnings for maritime activities in the area.
As the investigation continues, initial assessments suggest that the cave entered by the divers has a complex structure with narrow passages between large chambers. Conditions at these depths, particularly in the presence of strong ocean currents, have raised concerns about potential oxygen toxicity. Diving accidents are uncommon in the Maldives, though several fatalities have occurred in recent years. The university expressed its deepest condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the tragic loss of skilled divers.
Officials stated that divers with specialized equipment have been sent to the scene. Italy's foreign ministry confirmed it is working closely with the Maldivian authorities on search efforts. Additionally, about 20 Italian nationals aboard the Duke of York yacht, from which the divers departed, are safe and receiving support from the Italian embassy in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The situation is exacerbated by rough weather conditions, prompting warnings for maritime activities in the area.
As the investigation continues, initial assessments suggest that the cave entered by the divers has a complex structure with narrow passages between large chambers. Conditions at these depths, particularly in the presence of strong ocean currents, have raised concerns about potential oxygen toxicity. Diving accidents are uncommon in the Maldives, though several fatalities have occurred in recent years. The university expressed its deepest condolences to the victims and their families, emphasizing the tragic loss of skilled divers.
