A team of Finnish cave divers has arrived in the Maldives to assist the search for four missing Italian tourists.
The tourists went missing during a dive in V. Atoll, along with an Italian diving instructor whose body was later recovered. MNDF launched search operations by sea and air after the incident was reported to its Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre.
The operation was temporarily suspended after an MNDF officer died while taking part in the search. Authorities resumed preparations after international cave diving experts were brought in.
Senior government spokesperson Hussain Mohamed Shareef said three Finnish divers have arrived under arrangements made through the Italian government. The team will work with MNDF as the search continues under high risk underwater conditions.