Norman Rautenbach, NSRI Richards Bay station commander, said: At 17h33, Sunday, 18 October, NSRI Richards Bay duty crew were activated following eyewitness reports of a drowning in progress at Main Beach, Alkanstrand, Richards Bay.
Reports indicated 2 persons appearing to be in distress in the surf zone, caught in rip currents.
NSRI rescue swimmers, our NSRI rescue vehicle, the SA Police Service, Police Search and Rescue, uMhlathuze Fire and Rescue Services and Mounties EMS (Emergency Medical Services) responded.
While responding further eyewitness emergency calls indicated that one man had managed to reach the shore and one man had gone missing in the surf zone.
On arrival on the scene it was confirmed that one man, age 26, was safely ashore and his friend, age 27, had gone missing after last being seen in distress appearing to be caught in rip currents in the surf zone.
An extensive search has revealed no signs of the missing man.
Police have opened an investigation.
It appears that while swimming the 26 year old may have been caught in rip currents when his friend reportedly tried to assist him but he was then caught in the rip currents.
Paramedics attended to the 26 year old and after being medically assessed he required no further medical care.
Police Search and Rescue are continuing in ongoing search efforts for the missing man.
Thoughts and care are with the family and friends of the missing man in this difficult time.
Mud Eye
Fun South African Fact: South Africa has continuously paid tribute to Dr Christiaan Barnard’s groundbreaking medical achievements.
Blackfire
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