Five Italian divers have died while exploring underwater caves in the Maldives' Vaavu Atoll on Thursday. The group went missing after descending to depths of 50-60 meters in caves reportedly known for strong currents and complex tunnels. Tragically, a Maldivian rescue diver, Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahdhee, died while participating in the perilous operation to recover the bodies. This incident is considered potentially the worst single diving accident in the nation's history.
The Pulse
AccidentWorldHOTSunday, May 17, 2026
Maldives Diving Tragedy Claims Five Italians, Rescue Diver Dies in Recovery Operation
TLDR
Six died: 5 Italians, 1 Maldivian diver in Vaavu Atoll.
All five Italian divers' bodies recovered from 60m cave.
Maldivian diver Mohamed Mahudhee died during recovery.
Investigation probes extreme depth, exceeding limits.
5 Updates
Update #6\u00b7 May 20 · 8:46 AM
Update #5\u00b7 May 19 · 12:46 PM
Update #4\u00b7 May 18 · 2:46 PM
