Search continues for missing man swept off rocks in Thembalethu
Rescue teams, including NSRI Wilderness and SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services, continue search efforts after a 35-year-old man was swept off rocks near Thembalethu, George.
Image: Supplied
A 35-year-old man from Thembalethu, George, remains missing after being swept off rocks by waves while gathering fishing bait along the coastline on Monday afternoon.
NSRI Wilderness station commander Jonathan Britton said the duty crew was activated at 4.13pm on Monday, December 15, following reports that a local man had been washed into the sea near Thembalethu while on the coast with friends.
NSRI Wilderness rescue swimmers and shore crew responded, along with the NSRI rescue vehicle, the South African Police Service, Western Cape Government Health EMS rescue squad, George Fire and Rescue Services, and SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services.
The NSRI rescue craft Oscars Rescuer was launched on the Gwaing River, while V’s Rescuer was launched at Herolds Bay. A George Fire and Rescue Services rescue craft was also deployed, with extensive sea searches conducted offshore and along the coastline.
An EMS/AMS Skymed rescue helicopter was activated by EMS Metro Control to assist in the operation.
Despite an extensive air, sea and shoreline search, no sign of the man was found. Police divers from Water Policing and Diving Services are continuing with ongoing search efforts.
“Thoughts and care are with the family and friends of the missing man in this difficult time,” Britton said.
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