Ploče, Montenegro — A scuba-tank explosion at a popular Adriatic beach has led to the arrest of a 45-year-old man from Serbia, identified only as MB. The incident, which occurred on August 24, resulted in a 14-year-old boy losing his hand due to a piece of shrapnel striking his wrist while he was more than 50 meters away from the explosion site. Another teenager also sustained minor injuries in the blast.
Montenegrin authorities have announced MB faces allegations including endangering public safety and engaging in unauthorized business operations related to diving equipment, although specific charges have yet to be filed. Local reports indicate that the Basic State Prosecutor’s Office in Kotor has been informed of the arrest and is closely monitoring the investigation.
An expert has been dispatched to Ploče Beach to assist in inquiries regarding the explosion. Investigators are expected to examine a range of factors, including the maintenance and testing of scuba cylinders, as well as the potential impact of corrosion, fatigue, or manufacturing defects that may have contributed to the incident.
The Diving Centre Plaža Ploče, operational since 2011, offers a variety of diving services, including equipment rental. It reportedly operates with two compressors capable of producing up to 400 liters per minute for trimix and nitrox gas mixes.
Safety concerns surrounding dive operations have once again come to the forefront following this accident. Local diving enthusiasts and safety advocates are calling for stricter regulations and thorough inspections of diving equipment to prevent future incidents at popular diving locations like Ploče Beach.
The emotional and physical impact on the young victim and his family is profound, with many in the community expressing their solidarity and support as they navigate the aftermath of this tragic event. The possibility of long-term physical and emotional effects on the boy and his family remains a concern as they seek treatment and recovery.
As the investigation unfolds, both local authorities and the diving community are urged to prioritize safety measures to ensure that such accidents do not occur again, safeguarding those who seek adventure in the waters of the Adriatic Sea.