Maldives Suspends Boat Operator's License Following Fatal Diving Incident Involving Italian Tourists
Maldives Suspends Boat Operator’s Licence After Italian Divers’ Deaths

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The Maldives government has suspended the operating license of the MV Duke of York after a tragic diving incident on May 14, 2026, that resulted in the deaths of five Italian nationals. Search and rescue operations are ongoing for four missing tourists, while the government expresses condolences and emphasizes accountability for tourism service providers.
- 01The incident occurred during a diving excursion in Vaavu Atoll, Maldives.
- 02Search and rescue efforts are focused on locating four missing Italian tourists.
- 03The Maldives National Defence Force Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahdi died during the rescue operation.
- 04President Mohamed Muizzu and Tourism Minister Mohamed Ameen are overseeing the response efforts.
- 05The Ministry of Tourism has committed to holding tourism businesses accountable for safety standards.
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The Maldivian government has suspended the operating license of the MV Duke of York following a tragic diving incident that occurred on May 14, 2026, in Vaavu Atoll. The incident involved five Italian nationals, including a diving instructor, whose body has been recovered. Search and rescue operations are currently underway for the four missing tourists. The Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation extended its condolences to the families of the victims and acknowledged the sacrifice of Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahdi of the Maldives National Defence Force, who lost his life during the rescue efforts. President Mohamed Muizzu and Tourism Minister Mohamed Ameen have visited the site to oversee operations, emphasizing the priority of the search mission. The ministry praised the courage of the rescue personnel amidst challenging conditions. In light of the incident, the government has committed to a thorough investigation and has suspended the vessel's operating license pending the outcome. The ministry reiterated its dedication to ensuring that tourism businesses adhere to safety standards, stating that all necessary actions will be taken to ensure accountability.
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The suspension of the MV Duke of York's operating license could affect local tourism operations and safety regulations.
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