Italy awards Gold Medal for Civil Valour to late Maldivian diver Mahudhee

Italy has posthumously awarded the Gold Medal for Civil Valour to Sergeant First Class Mohamed Mahudhee, a Maldivian military diver who died during the search for missing Italian divers in Vaavu Atoll in May.

The medal is Italy’s highest distinction recognising acts of civil bravery, according to the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Mahudhee’s family accepted the award on his behalf at a reception marking Italian National Day in Malé.

Speaking at the reception, Maldives Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed paid tribute to Mahudhee and reflected on the tragedy. He also acknowledged the solidarity and compassion shown by the Italian government and people during the difficult period.

The diving incident occurred on May 14, 2026, when five Italian nationals went missing during a dive in Vaavu Atoll. One diver’s body was recovered that day, while the MNDF continued searching for the remaining four.

Mahudhee, a member of the MNDF Coast Guard, died on May 16 after falling critically ill during the search operation. According to PSM News, he developed decompression sickness and died while receiving treatment at ADK Hospital in Malé.

He was laid to rest with full military honours. President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, Cabinet ministers and senior government officials attended his funeral at the Islamic Centre, where hundreds gathered to pay their respects.

The Embassy of Italy in Colombo and the Honorary Consular Agency in Malé have also launched a fundraising appeal to support his family. The campaign will run until December 31, 2026, with donations transferred to his heirs. The embassy has pledged transparency in managing and distributing the funds.