A bather (22) went missing at Southbroom main beach yesterday (Thursday) around midday.

The local was reportedly conducting maintenance at the tidal pool. He then went for a swim and was caught in rip currents.

Despite efforts from Good Samaritans to save him, he was swept out to sea, before disappearing under the water.

National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) Port Edward and NSRI Shelly Beach were alerted by Wolf Security which reported to be on the scene of a drowning in progress. GP Security also assisted to raise the alarm.

John Nicholas, NSRI Port Edward station commander, said a man was caught in rip currents while swimming at low tide, and he was being swept out to sea.

“It was reported that colleagues, surfers and bystanders were attempting to reach the man in the surf zone, but the man had disappeared under water.”

Both stations’ rescue swimmers responded and rescue craft Spirit of Surfski 7 was launched from the Ramsgate Ski-Boat Club.

Officers from Ray Nkonyeni Municipality’s Law Enforcement and Fire and Rescue Department, Saps Water Policing and Diving Services, K9 Search and Rescue and Maser Security responded.

Despite an extensive sea, air (conducted by a Saps’ drone) and shoreline search there remains no signs of the missing man.

“Thoughts, care and compassion are with the family, friends and colleagues of the missing man in this difficult time,” said Nicholas.

The search will continue.

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