Military Diver Dies While Searching for Bodies of Missing People Who Died in Maldives Caves, Raising Death Toll to 6

The Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) has reported the tragic death of a staff sergeant involved in the rescue operations for the victims of a cave-diving incident that occurred earlier this month. The sergeant, named Mohamed Mahudhee, fell ill during the mission and subsequently died in hospital, marking a grim escalation in the toll following the tragic event.

The scuba diving accident has now claimed a total of six lives, following the deaths of five Italian divers who lost their lives while exploring underwater caves at a depth of 50 metres in Vaavu Atoll, located approximately 40 miles from the Maldivian capital, Malé. The incident took place on May 14, as confirmed by Italy’s foreign ministry.

The MNDF confirmed Mahudhee’s passing on May 16, stating that he had died suddenly while engaged in the search for four missing divers believed to be trapped in the same underwater cave. Authorities have managed to recover one body so far, but search teams are hopeful that the remaining four victims can also be located.

In their announcement, the MNDF described the challenging conditions of the rescue mission, which have been hampered by adverse weather and rough seas. The spokesperson for the Maldivian president, Mohammed Hussain Shareef, noted Mahudhee’s death as a stark reminder of the dangers faced during such operations.

Reports indicate that Mahudhee had been hospitalised after experiencing health issues while diving. Prior to his death, he had been one of eight divers participating in the rescue efforts. Following the news of his passing, plans were announced for his funeral service to take place shortly thereafter.

Italy’s Foreign Minister, Antonio Tajani, expressed deep condolences for both the individuals who lost their lives in the underwater tragedy and for Staff Sergeant Mahudhee. In a statement, he remarked, “These painful days for Italy are even worse after hearing that a courageous serviceman has died after trying to recover our countrymen.” Tajani further underscored the sorrow shared between Italy and the Maldives in light of this loss.

Among the five divers who tragically perished was Monica Montefalcone, an associate professor at the University of Genoa, along with her daughter, Giorgia Sommacal, a biomedical engineering student. The family had travelled to the Maldives for a research trip, although the diving excursion was not part of the formal academic mission according to university representatives. Also confirmed as victims are research fellow Muriel Oddenino and recent graduate Federico Gualtieri, alongside Gianluca Benedetti, a local diving instructor.

The intensity of the situation has drawn international attention, highlighting not only the devastating loss of life but also the broader implications of extreme recreational activities in hazardous conditions. The current situation remains tense as local authorities continue their efforts to recover the missing bodies, faced with the challenges presented by the unforgiving environment.

The MNDF’s operations serve as a further testament to the risks faced by rescue personnel in such dire circumstances. Mahudhee’s death, in particular, has reverberated across both national and international communities, leading to calls for improved safety measures and support for those engaged in similar high-risk missions in the future.

In the wake of this dual tragedy—the scuba diving incident and the loss of a valiant serviceman—a profound sense of grief has spread throughout both Italy and the Maldives. As the rescue efforts progress, many remain hopeful for the safe recovery of the remaining missing individuals, while also paying tribute to those who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty.