A diver reported missing off Marsascala yesterday was found alive and conscious by the Armed Forces but was suffering from decompression sickness.

The man was diving close to The Polynesian wreck, 1.5 nautical miles off Marsascala.

In a statement, the AFM said it was informed of the case at 12.10 p.m. and sent a helicopter and a search and rescue launch to the area.

After locating the diver, he was transferred to the launch and eventually winched on helicopter and taken to Mater Dei Hospital.

No further details were given.

The Polynesian lies at a depth of between 55 and 70 metres in a location prone to currents, making it suitable for experienced divers only.

Five divers have died this year in Maltese waters through incident or natural causes.

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