May 20. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The South African authorities announced this Sunday that they have declared dead eleven fishermen who disappeared in a shipwreck that took place on Friday, after ending search and rescue operations by sea and air due to the “continued lack of reports of sightings” and due to the “unfavorable climate.”
“I wish to extend my deepest condolences to the families of the 11 crew members now presumed deceased. I understand that the families of the bereaved fishermen have been informed that the search has been called off and that they are receiving professional advice and support, and that appropriate advice will be provided to the other fishermen who survived this incident,” said Environment Minister Barbara Creecy.
The minister has “welcomed” the appointment of the incident investigation team by the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA). The investigation will determine the cause of the sinking and ensure that safety protocols were followed, a statement said.
The boat sank on Friday off the coast of Cape Town. Then, nine fishermen were rescued after managing to deploy a lifeboat. At the moment, the reason for the sinking is unknown.
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