Five Italian tourists died in a cave diving accident while exploring the Vaavu atoll, with four victims still not found, according to reports from multiple sources.

The victims included a marine biology professor from the University of Genoa, her daughter, and two young researchers, the university confirmed. The group had departed Thursday morning on a diving expedition to explore the atoll but failed to resurface.

The diving location has been described as particularly challenging, with depths that deter even experienced divers using advanced equipment. The specific circumstances that led to the fatal accident remain unclear.

Search and recovery efforts are ongoing for the four missing victims. The University of Genoa has confirmed the identities of those involved in the tragedy, though details about the recovery of the fifth victim have not been specified.

The incident highlights the risks associated with deep cave diving, particularly in remote locations where rescue operations can be extremely difficult to conduct.