The search for two young people ended in tragedy yesterday when a 15-year-old girl was found dead and a 23-year-old man injured at the bottom of Dingli Cliffs.

Earlier in the day Lisa Maria Zahra and Erin Tanti had been reported missing.

Ms Zahra had last been seen on Tuesday, with the police issuing a statement saying she was wearing black leggings or blue jeans, a yellow top and black shoes.

The police yesterday called on the public to pass on any information they had about the pair.

Later, at around 4.30pm, the two were found at the bottom of Dingli Cliffs, police said.

They were lifted out by an AFM helicopter and Mr Tanti was rushed to hospital for treatment.

His condition was not yet known last night.

Ms Zahra was certified dead at the scene.

The operation was carried out jointly by the army, the police and the Civil Protection Department.

A magisterial inquiry is being held and the police are investigating the incident.