Italian media are reporting prosecutors have begun an official investigation of New Zealander James Cutfield, captain of the British flagged superyacht that sank of Sicily last week.

Reuters is not able to independently verify the decision and says being placed under investigation doesn't imply guilt or mean formal charges will follow.

On the weekend Italian prosecutors announced a manslaughter investigation - but at that stage were not investigating anyone in particular.

UK correspondent Gavin Grey says reports are unconfirmed.

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