NSRI continue searching for six fishermen reportedly missing at sea
An extensive search is on for six adult male fishermen reportedly missing after leaving Hout Bay and Hawston.
Amidst the vast expanse of the sea, a search effort is underway for six adult male fishermen who are reportedly missing after setting out from Hout Bay and Hawston.
Their vessel, the “Berta Fishing Experience,” a grey Ballistic 7.8 meter RHIB, has gone missing, leaving families, friends, and the maritime community on edge.
Prompted by the fishermen’s failure to return, concerned loved ones alerted the NSRI on Sunday morning. Furthermore, this initiated a coordinated search.
MASSIVE SEARCH LAUNCHED FOR MISSING FISHERMEN
Since then, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) has led a coordinated search operation. Various agencies, including the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA), NSRI units, and police services, support efforts focused on the deep waters south and southwest of Cape Point, where the fishermen were last believed to be.
According to TimesLIVE, Craig Lambinon, spokesperson for the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), stated: “A search involving the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) rescue craft, commercial fishing and motor vessels and recreational fishermen has as yet yielded no signs of the missing men and their craft.”
Additionally, in response to the urgency of the situation, Telkom Maritime Radio Services have issued marine VHF radio broadcasts. Urging all vessels in the vicinity to remain vigilant. Meanwhile, ski-boat mobile units and local maritime communities have mobilised, amplifying the call for assistance.
FAMILIES AWAIT ANSWERS IN SEARCH
As families grapple with the uncertainty of their loved ones’ fate, missing persons cases have been initiated. Adding a layer of official urgency to the search efforts.
The NSRI commends the bravery and solidarity displayed by all vessels involved in the operation. Also, they serve as a beacon of hope in these dark times.
The search continues tirelessly, with heartfelt thoughts and prayers reaching out to the families, colleagues, and friends of the missing fishermen.
This is a developing story.