Search for missing fisherman at Cape Vidal
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Richards Bay crew, was alerted to the incident shortly after midday on Sunday
THE search for a 41-year-old angler, who was swept out to sea while fishing at Cape Vidal, still continues.
‘Major Diya’, as he was known to many, from Verulam, was said to have been fishing off some rocks at Cape Vidal when a crashing wave swept him to sea.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), Richards Bay crew, was alerted to the incident shortly after midday on Sunday.
Brynn Gericke, NSRI Richards Bay Deputy Station Commander, said his crew was alerted by the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA).
‘Our sea rescue vehicle was dispatched carrying our NSRI rescue swimmers to the scene and two NSRI sea rescue craft were towed to the scene to be launched if required.
‘The TNPA helicopter carrying NSRI ASR (Air Sea Rescue) rescue swimmers, Ezemvelo Wildlife rangers and the SAPS Search and Rescue Dive Unit responded,’ said Gericke.
A local fishing boat, Advantage, also assisted in the operation and searched an area north of the where the fisherman is said to have initially been washed away.
Despite an extensive sea, shore and air search as well as a rescue operation, no sign of the missing fisherman had been found by 3pm on Sunday afternoon after the search had to be put on hold as rough currents during high tide made for tricky conditions.
A source close to the Eyethu Bay Watch said the rocky area of Cape Vidal, coupled with rough currents is a bit of a nightmare in terms of search operations.
A beach patrol was conducted on Monday night by SAPS Search and Rescue Dive Unit but heavy winds combined with sea mist made for more difficult conditions.
Another beach patrol was conducted on Tuesday with talks of again searching the area in which Diya was initially swept out to sea.
Interchanging north and south currents have left dive members contemplating as to which direction Diya’s body may have drifted.
Members of Diya’s family were present on Monday and Tuesday to assist with the search operations.
Police have since opened an investigation into the incident.
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