AFM searching for person who fell into rough sea below Fort St Elmo

The Armed Forces of Malta are searching for a person who reportedly fell into the rough sea below Fort St Elmo inside the Grand Harbour.

The incident happened at around 2pm. An AFM helicopter was dispatched to the area but search efforts have been hampered by the rough sea and strong winds. A rib was also deployed to the area to assist in the search.

The army has provided no details so far but has confirmed that a search is underway after receiving a report that someone had fallen into the sea.

The Civil Protection Department had issued a warning on Thursday asking people to stay away from coastal areas battered by rough seas. Malta's east coast continues to be hammered by strong winds.