President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has stated that the search operation for the Italian nationals who went missing while diving in Vaavu Atoll is being carried out with special priority.
The President made the remarks in a message of condolence addressed to the Government of Italy, the Italian people, and the families affected by the incident involving five Italian divers who went missing during a diving excursion in Vaavu Atoll.
In a statement shared on social media, President Muizzu extended condolences to Italian President Sergio Mattarella and the people of Italy. Expressing deep sadness over the incident, the President stated that the thoughts and prayers of the Maldivian people remain with the missing individuals and their families.
President Muizzu further emphasised that the ongoing operation to locate the four remaining missing Italian nationals is being treated as a high priority by the Maldivian government. He also thanked the Italian government for the cooperation extended in relation to the ongoing search and recovery efforts.
The five Italian nationals went missing while diving in a designated diving area in Vaavu Atoll. Authorities have so far recovered the body of one diver, while Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) rescue teams continue efforts to locate the remaining four individuals.