Two swimmers were rescued by the Civil Protection Department after a group of five became lost at sea while swimming in the Blue Grotto area, the department said on Thursday.

Rescuers from Fire Stations 1, 5 and 8 responded to the search and rescue operation involving the five swimmers, the CPD said in a Facebook post.

Three of the swimmers managed to make their way safely back to shore, while the remaining two were rescued by CPD personnel.

The two swimmers were brought on board CPD Delta 2 and transferred safely to land.

A medical team from Mater Dei Hospital's Emergency Department was also on the scene.

The swimmers were assessed by medical personnel and were discharged at the scene following the assessment.

The CPD thanked the Malta Police Force and the Armed Forces of Malta for their assistance and cooperation throughout the operation.