The Rescue Coordination Centre (RCC) was alerted on Thursday to the incident at the Santa Marija Cave in Ġnejna. Initial response efforts included dispatching an AFM rescue vessel and Civil Protection Department assets to assist the trapped tourists. However, the operation was complicated by rough sea conditions and the tourists' inability to swim to safety, necessitating the deployment of an AFM AW139 helicopter. The helicopter successfully winched both tourists from the cave and transported them to Mater Dei Hospital for medical treatment. The AFM has since issued a reminder for both locals and tourists to adhere to weather forecasts and official guidance regarding safe swimming locations to prevent similar incidents. The rescue highlights the importance of swift coordination between emergency services and the use of specialized equipment in challenging maritime environments. The tourists' condition upon arrival at the hospital was not immediately disclosed, but the successful operation underscores the effectiveness of the multi-agency response.