Five people were washed out to sea at Pennington main beach on the KZN South Coast this evening (January 1).

One was confirmed dead, his body recovered earlier today. A short while ago (around 21:30) a second body washed ashore about 100m from where the bathers entered the water.

One person was saved by lifeguards, but the other two (initially three) are still missing and are presumed dead.

The survivor was found to be in a stable condition.

This is according to Samantha Meyrick of IPSS Medical Rescue, who attended the scene.

They were joined by lifeguards, Saps search and rescue, and NSRI.

“Lifeguards conducted search operations in the water, while IPSS Medical Rescue and other emergency services remained on standby to provide medical support,” said Meyrick.

She said the search would continue again tomorrow at first light.

Story updated at 22:30.

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