14 individuals who were found afloat at sea in dangerous waters while diving, have been rescued.

The Maldives Police Service (MPS) revealed that a Marine Police speedboat that took off from Fuvahmulah City on Saturday morning spotted a diver afloat at sea near Gaaf Dhaal atoll Gan island.

When the speedboat reached the spot where the diver was spotted, they found two more divers in distress.

Upon rescuing the divers, they learned that additional divers too had been pulled away by strong currents in the region.

With this, officers onboard the marine police speedboat initiated a search and rescue operation, during which 14 individuals were rescued from turbulent waters.

Among those rescued and safely transferred to Gadhdhoo island of Gaaf Dhaal atoll without any reported casualties included four Maldivian instructors.

The rescued individuals included 10 nationals from Russia.

In a statement released on Saturday, the police institution expressed gratitude for the swift action by the marine police that averted a potential disaster.

MPS stressed that this incident serves as a reminder to all divers and beachgoers to exercise caution, remain vigilant of changing tides and currents, and adhere to safety guidelines to ensure their well-being.