A search diver has died in the Maldives while looking for the bodies of four Italian tourists who were exploring underwater caves, the country's president has revealed.
The incident occurred on 13 May, according to a statement from President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. The four tourists, all from Italy, were part of a group exploring the underwater caves in the Maldives when they went missing.
The search and rescue operation has been ongoing since the tourists were reported missing, with local authorities and international teams working together to locate them.
A spokesperson for the Maldivian government confirmed that a search diver had lost their life during the operation. The incident has raised concerns about safety in the Maldives, a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
The British Foreign Office has advised British nationals to exercise a high degree of caution when visiting the Maldives, particularly when engaging in water activities such as diving and snorkelling. The organisation has also warned against exploring underwater caves, citing the risks associated with the activity.