Italian forensic report says divers’ deaths were caused by oxygen deprivation

Five divers died after running out of oxygen while exploring Alimatha Cave in Vaavu Atoll, according to an expert report submitted to Italian prosecutors.

Among those killed in the May 14 incident were Monica Montefalcone, 51, a marine biology professor at the University of Genoa, and her daughter Giorgia Somacal. The other victims were Muriel Odenino, 31, Federico Gualtieri, 30, and diving instructor Gianluca Benedetti. A Maldivian soldier, Staff Sergeant Mohamed Mahudhy, an MNDF diver, also died during the recovery operation.

Italy is investigating the case, and prosecutors requested expert forensic analysis to determine the cause of death. Italian newspapers report that the expert findings have now been handed over to prosecutors. The report cites post‑mortem examinations conducted on May 25 and 26 at Gallarate Hospital in northern Italy, concluding that all five divers died due to lack of oxygen.

According to Italian news agency Lapresse, the divers’ oxygen tanks had run out. Toxicology tests found no poison or harmful substances, and there were no signs of shark attack or other serious injuries. The findings confirm that the divers ran out of gas, though it remains unclear why they were unable to ascend.

Investigators believe the group became disoriented inside the underwater cave, and Italian media report that authorities are now working to reconstruct the sequence of events.

The Maldivian army initially attempted the recovery, but three Finnish experts brought in at the request of the Italian government later led the operation. The bodies were recovered from the cave on May 20.

The incident attracted worldwide attention. The President later presented certificates to MNDF and Police personnel who took part in the recovery operation.