Three British tourists have been reported as missing and presumed dead after a fire on a dive boat in the Egyptian Red Sea on Sunday morning.
A statement from tour operator Scuba Travel was reported by the BBC as saying: “It is with great regret that we, as tour operator, with heavy hearts, must accept that three of our much-valued dive guests, perished in the tragic incident.
“Our sincere and heartfelt condolences go out to their families and friends at this very sad time.”
Twenty-six other people, including 12 Britons, were rescued from the boat, which was off the coast of Marsa Alam, according to reports. Twelve crew members and two guides had been on board.
The fire on Sunday has been attributed to an electrical fault and an investigation has begun.
The BBC said that boat had been chartered by specialist travel firm Scuba Travel for a seven-day tour in the Red Sea which is a popular area for diving trips.
BBC News correspondent Sally Nabil said: “This is really bad news for the tourism industry.
“They depend on tourism, particularly British tourism.”
The Foreign Office said it was supporting British nationals involved, added the BBC.
Picture of Port Ghalib by Taya Bright/Shutterstock