On Sunday, a somber announcement came from South African Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Barbara Creecy, expressing condolences to the families of 11 fishermen presumed to have lost their lives. “I wish to extend my heartfelt condolences to the families of the 11 crew members now presumed deceased,” the minister stated in a released statement. She further conveyed that the families had been informed of the decision to conclude the search efforts.
The fishing vessel encountered trouble and issued a distress call on Friday, ultimately sinking in the South Atlantic, a mere 30 nautical miles off the Cape of Good Hope.
Initially reported to have 20 crew members on board, the National Sea Rescue Institute revealed that nine survivors were rescued by fellow fishing vessels aboard a life raft. Thankfully, these survivors sustained no injuries and were safely brought ashore on another fishing vessel overnight.
Despite extensive efforts by lifeboats from Hout Bay and Table Bay, as well as aerial support from helicopters and airplanes operated by Aerios Global, adverse weather conditions and limited sightings led to the suspension of the search operation.
The search was conducted amid challenging conditions, with sea swells reaching 3 to 4 meters and winds blowing at speeds of 10 to 15 knots.
“Our thoughts and sympathies are with the families of the fishermen and the fishing company during this trying period,” stated the organization.
An investigation into the cause of the tragic sinking has been initiated.
Image/Source: CBSNews
