A rescue operation turned fatal after a Fast Rescue Boat capsized in rough seas while responding to a man-overboard incident aboard the uMkhuseli Emergency Towing Vessel
The South African maritime industry is mourning the loss of three crew members following a fatal incident approximately 40 nautical miles off Mossel Bay on September 30.
The incident occurred aboard the AMSOL-managed uMkhuseli Emergency Towing Vessel (ETV), operated on behalf of the Department of Transport, during inclement weather.
According to the Department, a crew member was pulled overboard while handling a mooring line, prompting an immediate search and rescue operation.
A Fast Rescue Boat (FRB) was dispatched to assist, carrying four crew members. However, the rescue boat capsized in rough seas, resulting in all five individuals entering the water.
Three bodies have since been recovered, while two crew members remain missing. The search operation was temporarily suspended overnight due to deteriorating weather conditions before resuming the following morning.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and her deputy, Mkhuleko Hlengwa, expressed their condolences to the families of the deceased crew members and the wider maritime industry.
“The Department commends all vessels that responded to the distress call and the NSRI volunteers for their courageous efforts under difficult conditions. A helicopter with winch capability was dispatched from Cape Town to support the operation,” said Creecy.
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) will conduct a preliminary investigation into the incident to establish the circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
AMSOL is providing support to the families of the deceased and the affected crew members.
“The safety of our seafarers remains a core focus area. The Department will continue to monitor the implementation of and compliance with safety measures in maritime operations,” said Hlengwa.