The Maldivian Coast Guard has resumed diving operations to recover the bodies of four Italian divers missing since Thursday.
According to the Italian Foreign Ministry, a team of eight Maldivian divers is working in shifts. The first two have already dived to locate the entrance to the cave system where the group disappeared. Six more divers will enter the water later to attempt to bring the bodies to the surface.
So far, only the body of Gianluca Benedetti, a professional from Padua, has been recovered. Severe weather had forced a temporary suspension of the search on Friday.
The victims include a university lecturer, her daughter, and two researchers-all described as highly experienced divers with advanced certifications. Authorities are investigating several theories, including disorientation inside the cave caused by stirred-up sand, toxic gas in the cylinders, or one diver becoming trapped while others ran out of oxygen trying to help.
The Italian ambassador and honorary consul are on board the Coast Guard vessel "Ghazee" to monitor the operation.
Italy's Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani has instructed that psychological support be provided to the victims' families. Separately, the Rome public prosecutor's office has opened an investigation into compliance with safety regulations. Recreational dives in the Maldives are only allowed to 30 meters, and deeper dives require special scientific permits.