Finland Expert Team to Arrive in the Maldives Tomorrow to Assist Search for Missing Tourists

A team of specialists from Finland is scheduled to arrive in the Maldives tomorrow to join the rescue operation for Italian tourists who went missing while diving near Alimatha Resort in Vaavu Atoll.

The search began after five Italian tourists went diving on the 14th of this month without a local dive guide and failed to return. Since then, one individual has been discovered deceased inside a cave at a depth of 60 meters. Efforts are currently underway to locate the remaining individuals within this cave, which is estimated to be approximately 200 feet long.

The Chief Government Spokesperson, Mohamed Hussain Shareef (Mundu), stated that a three-member team from Finland has already departed for the Maldives to assist in the operation. These experts belong to a company named "Baan," selected following consultations with the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States, and with the support of the Italian government. Mr. Shareef highlighted that this team is internationally recognized for their expertise in deep-sea and cave diving.

Eight divers from the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) were active in what has been described as a "high-risk" operation today. However, the operation has been temporarily suspended following the tragic passing of MNDF diver Sergeant First Class Mohamed Mahudhee, who fell ill while participating in the mission.

Mr. Shareef further noted that once the foreign experts arrive tomorrow morning, they will collaborate with Coast Guard divers to formulate a strategic plan for continuing the operation.

"Due to the recent incident and the inherent risks involved, the operation has been suspended for the time being. Once they arrive tomorrow, a path forward for the operation will be determined," Mr. Shareef said.

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu is closely monitoring the developments of this operation. According to the MNDF, the involvement of international experts will significantly strengthen the efforts to penetrate the deepest sections of the cave and locate the missing persons.