Britons issued travel warning for major tourist hotspot over risk of fatal shark attacks

The Foreign Office has issued an urgent travel warning to Britons travelling to the Maldives over the risk of fatal shark attacks.

The fresh alert, issued this afternoon, warns travellers to be aware of the risks involved when partaking in diving safaris.

The updated notice reads: "Diving safaris are available and may include opportunities to see sharks.

"Be aware of the potential risks as accidents can occur and, in rare cases, may be fatal."

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"It adds: Many resort islands are more than an hour away from the nearest hyperbaric chamber.

"Make sure you understand how your dive operator would get you to one of the three chambers in the islands."

The fresh warning appears alongside more general advice about swimming safety under "outdoor activities and adventure tourism".

The Foreign Office also provides warnings on transport risks, terrorism, crime, laws and cultural differences in the region.

Just last month, a Spanish newlywed was left fighting for life after a horrific shark attack in the region.

The man, from Alicante, suffered catastrophic injuries when he was viciously bitten while swimming off Kooddoo island in the Gaafu Alif Atoll.

Surgeons were forced to amputate his leg following severe blood loss.

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The couple had travelled to the Indian Ocean destination for their honeymoon.

The victim is believed to have entered the water as part of a group at a popular swimming spot.

It is thought that a bull shark was responsible.

The country, comprised of around 1,200 coral islands, is home to at least 30 species of shark.

According to figures published by Maldivian authorities, 112 tourists have died in marine incidents in the archipelagic country since 2020.

The tiny South Asian nation has seen an influx of tourists in recent years.

More than two million flock to its shores in 2024 alone.

It is also a popular holiday destination among Britons, with an estimated 180,000 travelling there every year.

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