A man died after being found unconscious in the sea at Sliema this afternoon, the police said.

The police were called for assistance after the man, from Eritrea, was found unconscious in the sea at Tigne just before 3pm.

The 42-year-old was taken on shore and an ambulance took him to hospital. He was certified dead some time later.

Magistrate Joe Mifsud is leading an inquiry.