Maldives suspends boat operator after five Italian divers die
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Male: The Maldives suspended the operation license of the luxury liveaboard boat MV Duke of York after five Italian divers died in the worst diving tragedy in the country, authorities said on Saturday.
Rescue workers spent a third day searching for the victims after the group failed to return after a dive in Vaavu Atoll on May 14. A dead body was found in an underwater tunnel, while four are reportedly still buried deep within the cave.
Maldivian officials enquired into why the divers reportedly went below the country's recommended recreational diving depth of 30 meters (98 ft). One diver's body was found about 60 meters into the cave.
The deceased include a marine biology professor, her daughter, and two young researchers, according to the University of Genoa. Italian authorities have also started an independent investigation into the tragedy.
According to the Maldives Ministry of Tourism, the Duke of York's licence will be suspended longer while the investigation is ongoing.
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