Boating association calls for probe into diving deaths

The National Boating Association of Maldives on Saturday called for a comprehensive investigation into the diving incident in Vaavu Atoll involving a group of Italian tourists.

Five Italian divers went missing near Alimatha in Vaavu Atoll during a dive operation. Authorities have so far recovered one body, while search efforts continue for the remaining four individuals.

The incident has attracted international media attention.

In a statement, the association said the Maldives’ position as a diving destination meant such incidents could affect both the maritime and tourism sectors.

The association stated that safety within the boating and diving industries remained a priority and pledged cooperation in maintaining operational standards.

The NBAM also urged authorities to complete a full investigation before taking punitive action against any parties involved.

According to the statement, institutions should avoid actions that could negatively affect the industry before investigations are concluded.

The association added that legal action should be taken against any parties found negligent after the inquiry is completed.

The NBAM also called for technical diving activities to be regulated through a monitoring and regulatory framework developed in consultation with tourism industry stakeholders and based on international practices.

The association stated that the safety of tourists and the reputation of the tourism sector should remain priorities and that measures were needed to prevent similar incidents.

Meanwhile, Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahudhee of the Maldives National Defence Force died on Saturday while participating in the search and rescue operation.

The government has announced that international technical diving experts are expected to arrive in the Maldives on Sunday to assist in the ongoing operation.