Three individuals were safely rescued on Friday afternoon after becoming stranded at Ta' Marija Cave in Gnejna following a trekking expedition, according to the Civil Protection Department (CPD).

The CPD said in a Facebook post that it was alerted to the situation after the three persons found themselves unable to return from the coastal cave area and required assistance.

A coordinated rescue operation was immediately launched involving the CPD and the Armed Forces of Malta (AFM). Rescue teams from Fire Stations 3, 5, 7 and 8 were deployed to the scene to locate and assist the stranded individuals.

Following the operation, all three persons were successfully found and brought safely back to land. No injuries were reported.

"The Civil Protection Malta extends its appreciation to all responding entities for their swift coordination, professionalism, and assistance throughout the operation," the department said.