The NSRI has confirmed the drowning of a fisherman near Cape Point. Image by NSRI.
SANDF to convene board of inquiry into tragic submarine incident
The SANDF has requested for families of crew members who were swept at sea while aboard an SA Navy submarine to be granted privacy.
The NSRI has confirmed the drowning of a fisherman near Cape Point. Image by NSRI.
The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) says it will convene a board of inquiry to investigate the tragic incident involving a SA Navy submarine where three crew members perished at sea off off Kommetjie, near Cape Town.
The incident happened on Wednesday, 20 September. .
BOARD TO INVESTIGATE SA NAVY SUBMARINE INCIDENT
As previously reported by The South African the SAS Manthatisi was reportedly en route to Cape Town while conducting a vertical transfer (VERTREP) by means of a SA Air Force Maritime Lynx helicopter, when high waves swept seven crew members out to sea.
Rough seas affected the rescue and recovery operation, in which the National Sea Rescue Institute assisted.
ALSO READ: Ramaphosa mourns SA Navy mariners who paased away in Kommetjie
While all seven crew members were recovered, three fatalities were recorded. Other crew members, including a senior officer in a critical condition, are being treated in hospital.
The crew member were identified the deceased submariners as Lieutenant Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector, Master Warrant Officer William Masela Mathipa and Warrant Officer Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela.
On Sunday, 24 September, the SANDF said it will convene a board of inquiry to establish the circumstances of the devastating incident.
“The SANDF condemns all unfounded speculations regarding the circumstances that gave rise to the incident. Such speculations only add injury to already open wounds,” the defence force said.
RAMAPHOSA MOURNS DECEASED SUBMARINERS
As Commander-in-Chief of South Africa’s Armed Forces President Cyril Ramaphosa said this is a sad loss for the nation and for the brave armed forces in particular, who routinely face danger in order for everyone in the country to be safe and secure.
“My thoughts and prayers go out to the families, friends, commanders and colleagues of the crew members we have lost. We wish the injured personnel a full recovery from the physical and psychological trauma they experienced during this tragedy.
“We also appreciate the efforts of all role players who, at great risk to themselves, undertook the rescue and recovery operation,” Ramaphosa said.
