Five divers were rescued by the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM) and the Civil Protection Department (CPD) in an operation near Wied iż-Żurrieq.

The operation was very difficult due to strong currents and strong winds, a statement by the AFM and CPD read.

The Red Cross had informed the AFM that five divers were in difficulty after they were dragged out to sea by the current. The AFM sent a helicopter and the Melita 2 into the area, while the CPD sent fire engines with rhibs. 

One diver was saved by helicopter, who was dropped off in Wied iż-Żurrieq by winch and taken to Mater Dei Hospital by ambulance.

The other four divers were rescued by the CPD on a rhib and taken to Marsaxlokk.