A British tourist is in critical condition after a shark attack in the Maldives, according to local authorities. The incident occurred near a luxury resort on Monday, with the victim sustaining severe injuries, including the loss of a leg.
The Maldives, known for its pristine beaches and coral reefs, is a top destination for divers and snorkelers. Shark attacks in the region are rare, with only a handful of incidents reported in the past decade. Officials have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the attack.
“This is a tragic and unusual event,” said a spokesperson for the Maldivian tourism board. “Our thoughts are with the victim and their family, and we are providing all necessary support.”
Experts suggest that the attack may have been provoked by unusual marine conditions or human activity. “Sharks are generally not aggressive toward humans unless provoked,” said a marine biologist familiar with the region. “Further study is needed to understand what triggered this incident.”
The incident has raised concerns among tourists and resort operators, with some calling for increased safety measures in popular diving spots.