The five Italian divers who drowned in the Maldives were not wearing proper scuba equipment for the journey – and were just 15 minutes from the surface when they died.

“Tragic human error” was a key factor in the May 14 horror, in which the group died 200 feet below the surface, Finnish diver Sami Paakkarinen told the Sun.

Four of the bodies were found together, Paakkarinen added.

“Unfortunately, in most cave diving accidents, the main cause is always human error,” he said.

The victims did not have proper cave diving equipment, including a diving reel or guide rope, according to the rescuer.

In general, for those who visit caves, it’s known that it’s not very wise to do so without a safety line,” Paakarinen said.

This is a developing story. Please check back for more updates.