Schalk Boonzaaier, NSRI Kleinmond station commander, said:
At 11h53, Friday, 17th May, NSRI Hermanus, NSRI Kleinmond and the EMS/AMS Skymed rescue helicopter were activated following reports from families of three Hawston fishermen suspected to be missing at sea between Hawston and Kleinmond.
The sea rescue craft South Star and Jaytee III was launched and a sea and shoreline search was joined by the EMS/AMS Skymed rescue helicopter conducting an air search.
Flotsam from the casualty boat was located off-shore between Hawston harbour and Kleinmond and during an ongoing search the Skymed helicopter located the fishermen’s boat capsized 7 nautical miles off-shore and South of Hawston.
Our sea rescue craft diverted to the location of the capsized boat and righted and took the casualty boat under tow.
Despite an extensive search no sign of the 3 fishermen, believed to be aged in their 30’s and 40’s, has been found and Police and the Police dive unit are continuing in an ongoing search operation and investigations into the incident.
The casualty boat was towed to Hermanus harbour and recovered and handed to the family members of the missing fishermen.
Telkom Maritime Radio services assisted with VHF marine radio communications and an all ships alert has been posted alerting ships in the area to remain alert for any signs of the three missing fishermen.
Thoughts are with the families in this difficult time.
