An initial report has been released by Divers Alert Network (DAN) following the fatal diving incident involving Italian tourists in Vaavu Atoll.

The report was compiled after a four-day international search and recovery operation carried out between May 18 and 21 in the Dhekunu Kandu cave system, also known as Thinwana Kandu.

The mission was conducted through a coordinated effort involving the Maldives National Defence Force (MNDF), Maldives Police Service, DAN Europe, local partners, a Finnish technical diving team, and representatives from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

According to the preliminary findings, the operation began with the identification of the missing divers within the cave system on the first day.

Over the following two days, recovery teams successfully retrieved the victims under what were described as highly complex environmental and operational conditions.

The final day was dedicated to clearing all equipment from the cave, with recovered materials handed over to relevant authorities.

The report outlines the challenging nature of the cave environment, noting that access begins through a large initial chamber leading to a second, completely dark chamber with a sandy floor.

Disturbance of the sand can significantly reduce visibility, creating hazardous conditions for divers.

During the search, teams identified an additional tunnel branching from the second chamber.

All four missing divers were ultimately located within this area.

Based on available evidence, the report suggests that the divers may have been unable to navigate their way back to the exit, most likely due to disorientation within the cave system.

However, DAN emphasised that any definitive conclusions regarding the cause of the incident will be determined by the relevant investigative authorities.

The organisation also urged the public and media to refrain from speculation, stressing the importance of respecting the victims and their families.

In its advisory, DAN cautioned against entering the cave system without proper authorisation, specialised cave-diving training, and appropriate technical equipment, highlighting the inherent dangers of such environments.

The mission concluded in remembrance of the six victims of the tragedy, including five Italian divers and a Maldivian officer Sergeant First Class Mohamed Mahudhee, who lost his life during the rescue operation.