Lhaviyani Atoll, Maldives – Toshiyuki Adachi, a Japanese lawmaker from the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, has died in a snorkeling accident while vacationing in the Maldives.

The Maldives Police Service confirmed that the death of a 70-year-old Japanese national was reported on December 27, 2024. Adachi, who was staying at a five-star resort in Lhaviyani Atoll, reportedly encountered difficulties while snorkeling.

A native of Hyogo Prefecture in western Japan, Adachi was first elected to the House of Councillors, the upper chamber of Japan’s Diet, in 2016. Before his election, he served as Vice Minister for Engineering Affairs and was known for his contributions to Japan’s industrial and infrastructure policies.

Maldivian authorities have launched an investigation into the incident to determine the circumstances surrounding his death.

Adachi’s untimely passing has been met with shock and sadness in both Japan and the Maldives, with condolences pouring in from colleagues and officials.