Brutal shark attack leaves tourist with ‘leg nearly ripped off’ while staying at 5-star resort in Maldives

A TOURIST was left with horror injuries after being reportedly mauled by a shark at a popular honeymoon hotspot.

Doctors are now battling to save the man’s leg after the beast “almost bit it off” as he swam in Noonu Atoll, in the Maldives.

He is a wealthy guest at a five-star luxury resort in the tropical paradise, according to reports in Russian media.

The hotel, where rooms start at £700 a night, previously said it was unaware of a shark attack involving one of its guests on its property.

“We have not received any reports of a shark attack on a person,” the resort reportedly stated.

The Sun has approached the hotel for comment.

Horror pictures show the holidaymaker in hospital where he reportedly underwent surgery.

They also appear to show his wounded leg and foot.

Reports on Telegram channels say the tourist was Russian, but the same outlets on news websites do not specify his nationality. 

Telegram channel 112 said that the man was “happily splashing in the azure ocean near Noonu Atoll”.

“The man was seriously injured and required surgery ahead of a long period of recovery.”

Russian diplomat German Fyodorov said the embassy covering the Maldives – based in Sri Lanka – was unaware of any incident involving one of its citizens and a shark.

The “shark attack” was reported by REN TV, 112 and Izvestia, all media outlets controlled by Russian dictator Vladimir Putin’s lover Alena Kabaeva, 40, who heads the National Media Group.

Noonu Atoll is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, pristine beaches, and luxurious resorts.

It offers visitors a tranquil and secluded escape, with crystal-clear waters perfect for snorkeling, diving, and other water activities.

Noonu Atoll is also renowned for its ultra-lux resorts, which offer exclusive amenities and accommodations, making it a popular destination for honeymooners and luxury travellers seeking a serene retreat.

In February, a shark attacked a group of tourist divers in the Maldives.

Dramatic footage shows the massive fish making a beeline for one diver before moving onto the next, smashing into each with its powerful head and snout.

A spearfishing guide from the Cayman Islands, Cameron Kirkconnell, shared the clip to his Instagram page as a reminder to his 126,000 followers to keep their wits about them while diving.

He captioned the video: “Maldives shark dive fun.

“I don’t want my insta to be full of these but this one was a great example of people put in a situation they thought was fine. It wasn’t.”

Mr Kirkconnell clarified that the video was not his own, but he was using it to call for a ban on tourists diving with sharks.

According to reports, the involved divers who had little experience with the species.