Diving Instructor Arrested

When a 29-year-old British woman died during a diving trip on September 19, while on holiday in Albania, the 45-year-old diving instructor, Saimir Kushova, was arrested.

The woman and her boyfriend were diving the WW2 wreck of the Probitas off Saranda, not far from the Greek island of Corfu. They were among eight tourists diving with Spiranca Diving on the Italian freighter, which sank after being bombed. The wreck lies on its side about 300 yards from shore. Saranda has become popular with European divers thanks to six former Albanian naval vessels that were intentionally sunk for the benefit of divers two decades ago. They lie in depths between 60 and 100 feet.

It was claimed by others on board the dive boat that Saimir Kushova had tried to rescue the woman, and had given her CPR. That didn't stop him from being arrested while authorities attempt to establish exactly what had happened.

In Europe, diving instructors are subject to statutory laws. Less so in the USA, where it takes legal action by the heirs of the decedents to bring such people to court.

Do you think such diving operations in the USA should be subject to regulation? Write to BenDDavison@undercurrent.org not forgetting to mention your town and state.