Police confirmed that a body found in a submerged van on Wednesday was that of Darius Tucker, the former Member of Parliament.

Mr Tucker’s body was recovered off Marginal Wharf in St George’s by divers from the Royal Bermuda Regiment Coastguard.

David Burt, the Premier, who led tributes to the former MP, said Mr Tucker’s death was “a terrible tragedy”.

He added: “Darius was a warm, kind-hearted person, and a genuinely down-to-earth individual.

“His untimely passing is immensely sad. His outgoing personality and incredible work ethic made him a welcome addition to the legislature and the island is grateful for his public service.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda, I express heartfelt condolences to his wife and family as they deal with such a great personal loss.”

Detective Inspector Sherwin Joseph expressed his condolences to Mr Tucker’s family and appealed for information.

He said: “Our investigations continue into this most unfortunate incident, led by our Criminal Investigations Unit.

“They have completed several actions and continue to pursue several lines of inquiry, so that we can understand what has occurred.

Mr Joseph said anyone with CCTV in the St David’s area should review their footage from about 6.30pm on Sunday to check if cameras had captured a white motor van with the registration plate IN3074.

The van had a DTS logo on the side and was last seen heading into St David’s.

Mr Joseph said there did not appear to be any suspicious circumstances, but that police were “keeping an open mind”.

A major search was launched last weekend and an appeal for public to help to find Mr Tucker was issued.

Police could not confirm the cause of death.

Mr Tucker was elected as an MP for the former United Bermuda Party in 2007 and later sat as an independent before he joined the Progressive Labour Party in 2011.

Anyone with any information that could assist the police investigation should contact Detective Inspector Derricka Burns on 717-0921 or 295-0011.

Mr Joseph told those who joined in the search: “We would also like to thank the members of our community who came out in numbers in search of Darius. Your efforts have not gone unnoticed by the family of Mr Tucker.”

A spokeswoman for the Progressive Labour Party said: “The PLP is deeply saddened by the untimely passing of former MP Mr Darius Tucker.

She added: “Darius could always be counted on to offer encouragement, support and advice to the party while in opposition and in government. He was widely respected and a friend to all.

“Our deepest condolences are extended to his wife and son, extended family and friends during this difficult time.”