Man Swept Off Rocks Near Thembalethu Remains Missing After Extensive NSRI Search

Jonathan Britton, NSRI Wilderness station commander, said: At 16h13, Monday, 15 December, NSRI Wilderness duty crew were activated following reports of a local man swept off rocks by waves while (we believe) gathering fishing bait, with friends, on the coastline near to Thembalethu, George.

NSRI Wilderness rescue swimmers and shore crew, our NSRI Wilderness rescue vehicle, the SA Police Services, WC Government Health EMS rescue squad, George Fire and Rescue Services and Police WPDS (Water Policing and Diving Services) responded directly to the scene.

The NSRI rescue craft Oscars Rescuer was launched on the Gwaing River, the NSRI rescue craft V's Rescuer was launched at Herolds Bay and a George Fire and Rescue Services rescue craft was launched and proceeded in extensive sea search efforts offshore and along the coastline in the area.

The EMS/AMS Skymed rescue helicopter was activated by EMS Metro Control.

An extensive air, sea and shoreline search revealed no sign of the man, age 35, from Thembalethu, George, who remains missing.

Police divers (WPDS) are continuing in ongoing search efforts.

Thoughts and care are with the family and friends of the missing man in this difficult time.