A swimmer who has yet to be identified was certified dead at Mater Dei Hospital shortly after being rescued at sea today, at about 2.25pm, in Qui-Si-Sana, Sliema.

The man was initially seen in distress out at sea but attempts to rescue him by a police constable and a passerby proved fruitless. He was eventually recovered by the Armed Forces of Malta's Maritime Squadron and rushed to hospital.

The police constable and passerby received medical assistance on site.

Investigations are under way while several experts have been appointed to assist with a magisterial inquiry.