Two tourists rescued by helicopter after getting trapped in Ġnejna cave

Two tourists were rescued by helicopter after becoming trapped in Santa Marija Cave at Ġnejna.

The Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) was notified of the incident on Thursday and immediately dispatched an AFM rescue vessel, along with Civil Protection Department assets, to assist in the operation.

However, due to rough sea conditions and the tourists’ inability to swim to safety, an AFM AW139 helicopter was deployed to carry out the rescue.

Both tourists were successfully winched to safety and handed over to Mater Dei Hospital personnel for treatment.

The AFM reminded locals and tourists to follow weather forecasts and official guidance on safe swimming locations, both of which are available online.