The body of a man believed to be that of one of two local fishermen who went missing at sea three days ago washed ashore yesterday afternoon (Tuesday 21 February).
DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette previously reported that an extensive search was launched for the fishing duo on Monday (20 February), after they apparently went missing while fishing out in Strand waters the previous day (“Search continues for two fishermen missing at sea,” 21 February).
National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) duty crew were activated after the pair, aged 54 and 40, reportedly went missing while fishing off the shore of Die Poort late Sunday afternoon (19 February). Duty crews of NSRI Gordon’s Bay, Kleinmond, Strandfontein and Simonstown were called to action for the search around 08:44 on Monday.
During an extensive search between Kleinmond and Macassar, the small boat was located broken-up and washed into a crevice along a rocky shoreline between Gordon’s Bay and Steenbras River Mouth. However, there was no sign of the two missing men.
According to a statement released by the NSRI earlier today (Wednesday), City of Cape Town lifeguards stationed at Kogel Bay located the body of an unidentified man behind the back breakers around 16:58 on Tuesday. Under the guidance of the police dive unit, lifeguards recovered the body to the shore where authorities, including local police and emergency personnel, attended to the scene.
“The body of the man was taken into the care of Government Health Forensic Pathology Services. Police are assisting the families of the two missing fishermen, who were reported missing on a small open boat off-shore of Strand on Monday, with identification procedures. It is believed that the body is that of the 54-year-old man from that incident,” the statement read.
A spokesperson from Gordon’s Bay police confirmed an inquest docket has been opened and a formal identification process will follow. Authorities remain on the look-out for the other missing fisherman who is still sought.
Details of the tragedy, including the names and photos of the fishermen, have been widely shared on various social media platforms. However, out of respect for the affected families and the sensitivity of the matter DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette decided not to publish any photos or personal information that has not been officially obtained.
