Image supplied
A huge rescue operation is underway as search teams fear for “at least nine missing people” on board a capsized boat near Cape Town.
Image supplied
A concerning situation is taking place off the coast of Clifton in Cape Town. An inflatable boat capsized shortly after 8:00 on Thursday morning with multiple occupants on board. Search and rescue teams – including the NSRI – are battling to find the missing crew members.
The vessel itself has been dragged to shore, and as of 12:30, one person has made it back to land – they are now helping with the operation. The South African Air Force, the South African Police Service and various emergency service providers are providing assistance at the scene.
Weather warnings had been in place for high winds across the coastal regions of the Western Cape for most of the week, and there may be tragic consequences to these forecasts. The boat itself was discovered 3.7km away from Mouille Point.
Earlier we spoke with Craig Lambinon, a spokesperson for the NSRI: Amidst the chaos of the rescue protocol, he was able to clarify a few things with us:
#BoatCapsized at least 9 people are believed to be missing at sea after their boat capsized earlier this morning. A helicopter can be seen circling the areas between Oudekraal and Mouille Point. JK pic.twitter.com/vvbxJv3ZpC
— EWN Reporter (@ewnreporter) February 27, 2020