A diver lost his life near Manoel Island on Sunday afternoon, the police said.

The accident happened at around 5.30pm.

The police were informed that a diver was in difficulty near Manoel Island, off Gzira.

The diver was taken to shore by people who were with him.

The diver was later identified as a Russian national, aged 44.

Magistrate Claire Stafrace Zammit is leading an inquiry.