A search is continuing for a 16-year-old boy who went missing in the surf at Eastern Beach in East London on Saturday afternoon, following a drowning incident involving two teenagers.
According to NSRI East London station commander Cathrine Prentis, the NSRI duty crew was activated at around 12:30 after a request for assistance from Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality (BCMM) lifeguards, who reported a drowning in progress.
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Disappeared in the surf zone
Lifeguards managed to rescue a 14-year-old local boy and bring him safely to shore, but a search was immediately launched for his 16-year-old friend, who disappeared in the surf zone.
It is believed the two teenagers were swimming when they were caught in rip currents.
NSRI East London responded with a rescue vehicle and launched a JetRIB rescue craft.
A coordinated search operation was initiated involving BCMM lifeguards, the South African Police Service (SAPS), NSRI rescue swimmers, Eastern Cape Government Health EMS, SAPS K9 Search and Rescue, Red Alert Ambulance Services and Priority Care Ambulance Services.
Extensive search
On arrival, NSRI, police and emergency personnel joined lifeguards in extensive sea and shoreline search efforts for the missing teenager.
The 14-year-old boy who was rescued was transported to hospital by ambulance in a serious, but stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery.
Despite ongoing and extensive search efforts, there have been no signs of the missing 16-year-old.
Police Search and Rescue and SAPS K9 units are continuing the operation, assisted by NSRI East London and BCMM lifeguards.
“Our thoughts and care are with the family of the missing teenager during this incredibly difficult time,” Prentis said.
