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Monday 01 Jun 2026
LOCAL EDITION
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LOCAL EDITION
DAN-led Finnish experts begin last dive search and recovery mission conducted at Dhekunu Kandu cave dive site near V. Alimathaa where five Italian tourists, who went diving, died. (Photo/DAN Europe)
Italy has awarded the Order of Merit to the three Finnish specialist divers who travelled to Maldives to assist in the recovery of the bodies of five Italian researchers who died inside an underwater cave in Vaavu Atoll earlier this month.
According to Finnish broadcaster Yle, the honour was conferred by Italian President Sergio Mattarella in recognition of the team’s contribution to the difficult and high‑risk recovery mission carried out in Maldives. The three divers, all experienced deep‑ and cave‑diving professionals, were deployed to Maldives after the deaths of the Italian group triggered an international response.
The Finnish team worked with Maldivian authorities to plan and execute the recovery operation inside the cave system near Alimatha, where the Italian researchers were trapped. The incident also claimed the life of MNDF Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahudhy, who died during the intitial search effort.
Italy said the Order of Merit was awarded to acknowledge the Finnish divers’ professionalism, courage and service in an operation that drew global attention. The honour is one of Italy’s highest civilian recognitions.
The five Italians, including marine ecologist Monica Montefalcone, died while exploring a deep underwater cave system believed to contain three chambers connected by narrow passages. Joint teams recovered the bodies in stages, with the Finnish specialists assisting in the final phase of the operation.
The tragedy has prompted investigations in both Maldives and Italy. Maldivian officials have said the group had a research permit but had not informed authorities that they intended to explore an underwater cave, nor had they shared the exact dive location. Italy has opened a culpable homicide inquiry into the deaths.
The recognition by Italy comes as both countries continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has been described as one of the most complex and dangerous recovery operations carried out in Maldives.
