Divers Alert Network (DAN) Europe has confirmed that key items essential to the ongoing investigation have been successfully recovered from an underwater cave near Vaavu Alimatha, where Italian divers were reported missing earlier this month.

In information issued following the conclusion of the operation, DAN Europe revealed that the final dive lasting approximately 50 minutes resulted in the retrieval of several critical materials.

These items have since been handed over to the relevant authorities to support the investigation.

Upon completing the mission, the organisation also released a series of photographs capturing both the exterior and interior sections of the cave, describing the site as a deep and dark underwater cavern.

The recovery operation, which spanned three hours and was conducted in two phases, led to the successful retrieval of bodies located in the deepest parts of the cave.

Despite significant challenges, including narrow passageways and extremely poor visibility caused by disturbed silt, the dive team managed to carry out the operation effectively.

Authorities have confirmed that arrangements are now underway to repatriate the bodies to Italy.

During the final stages of the mission, additional data including photographic and video documentation was collected to assist in mapping the cave.

DAN Europe has stated that this detailed map will be handed over to Maldivian government authorities for further analysis.

Tragically, the operation also claimed the life of Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF) Sergeant First Class Mohamed Mahudhee, who passed away on the 16th while assisting in the search and recovery efforts.