British man and his teenage son disappeared while diving in Malaysia. They surfaced just before drifting off, as the only survivor of the group said.

Adrian Chesters, 14 years old, and Nathan Chesters, 14, were diving at 15 metres depth off Mersing, , when they vanished on Wednesday.

They were joined by Kristine Grodem (Norwegian diving instructor), who was rescued Thursday and Alexia Molina (18-year-old French citizen), who remain missing.

Ms Grodem was lifted from the water by a tugboat located around 40km from the dive site. She was then airlifted to a hospital.

Advertisement

According to reports, the 35-year old, who was training others, is in stable condition with no serious injuries.

She claims she was separated from her husband because of strong currents

Cyril Edward Nuing, chief of district police, said that Ms Grodem informed investigators that the group emerged after 40 minutes and started a second dive. He stated that they surfaced soon after due to rough water conditions, before drifting away.

Ms Grodem claimed that she was separated from the other victims by the strong current.

According to her account, three other people managed to reach the surface. We believe that there is a good chance of them being found alive with their equipment, their entire gear, and their experience,” Mr Nuing stated.

Boat’s skipper tested positive for drugs

Authorities expanded their search area and now have two planes, 18 boats and approximately 90 personnel.

The boat’s skipper was found to be high on drugs by police and was taken into custody for further investigation.

While an investigation into the incident takes place, all diving activities in the vicinity have been stopped.

Five islands are located off the town and are very popular with tourists and locals.

The Foreign Office has been in touch with Mr Chesters’ son at the resort and has provided consular assistance.