Tragedy struck in the Philippines as two tourists reportedly died after being caught in a strong undercurrent at a well-known diving site.

The divers, identified as Ilia Peregudin, 29, and Maksim Melekhov, 39, were exploring the waters off Verde Island, an area known for its rich marine life and coral reefs. According to Viral Press, they were swept away on Thursday towards a group of sharks.

“A strong current separated the group. Two divers, accompanied by the master diver, managed to return to the boat, but the other two did not resurface,” Philippine Coast Guard Captain Airland Lapitan told Viral Press.

“Recovering one of the divers was challenging due to the sharks circling the body,” he added. “We suspect a shark attack because the individual’s right hand was missing.”

 

Footage from the dive captured schools of fish in the area just before the incident.

Peregudin was reportedly pronounced dead upon arrival at a Batangas hospital.

 

“The experience was overwhelming and traumatizing. We encountered strong currents and waves,” said Diego Reyes, a local resident who stated he dived with the Russian tourists, to Viral Press.

“It was difficult to rejoin the group after being separated. I hope authorities can determine what happened to them. Grateful for the safety of our group. Rest in peace to the Russian divers,” he added.

An investigation into the incident is currently underway.

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