An extensive search is continuing for a 35-year-old local man who went missing after being swept off rocks by waves while gathering fishing bait along the coastline near Thembalethu, outside George.
According to Jonathan Britton, station commander of NSRI Wilderness, rescue teams were activated at approximately 16:13 on Monday, 15 December, following reports that the man had been swept into the sea while with friends.
Deployed to the scene
NSRI Wilderness rescue swimmers and shore crews were deployed to the scene, supported by the NSRI rescue vehicle, South African Police Service, Western Cape Government Health EMS rescue squad, George Fire and Rescue Services, and SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services (WPDS).
Two NSRI rescue craft were launched – Oscars Rescuer from the Gwaing River and V’s Rescuer from Herolds Bay – while a George Fire and Rescue Services rescue craft conducted extensive offshore and coastal search operations.
Aerial search
An EMS/AMS Skymed rescue helicopter was also activated by EMS Metro Control to assist in the aerial search.
Despite a coordinated air, sea and shoreline search, no sign of the missing man has been found.
Police divers from WPDS are continuing ongoing search efforts.
“Thoughts and care are with the family and friends of the missing man during this difficult time,” Britton said.
