RICHARDS BAY — A 24-year-old man from Greytown is missing after being swept out to sea while swimming at Alkantstrand near Main Beach, Richards Bay, on Saturday, 18 July.
According to NSRI Richards Bay deputy station commander Manie le Roux, the duty crew was activated at 17:19 following reports of a suspected drowning in progress.
“NSRI rescue swimmers responded directly to the beach while the rescue vehicle was dispatched from the station. On arrival, a search commenced for the man, who had reportedly been seen in the surf zone appearing to be caught in rip currents before disappearing underwater,” he said.
Police search and rescue and sea borderline control joined the search.
Despite an extensive search using spotlights and shoreline patrols, no trace of the missing man has been found.
Le Roux said it appears that a local sports tour group visiting Richards Bay from Greytown for a tournament had been at the beach. Some members were swimming when the man was swept out to sea and the alarm was raised.
Police have opened an investigation, and police divers are continuing the search. The tour group is in the care of police.
NSRI expressed its thoughts and care are with the family and friends of the missing man.
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