The maritime rescue operation off the southern coast of the Western Cape region of South Africa turned into a tragedy on September 30, 2026. In this incident, three rescuers lost their lives, and two others were reported missing and presumed drowned. The rescue boat operator, AMSOL, and the South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) announced that an investigation is underway and they will assist the families of the missing members.
Details of the Incident
The search vessel Umkhuseli, with a capacity of 5,400 tons, was dispatched on September 30 to respond to an emergency situation. This vessel, built in 2013 and measuring 83 meters in length, has been employed by the South African Department of Transport as a rescue and emergency response boat. It was operating near an offshore platform about 47 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay and the southern coast of South Africa.
Actions Following the Incident
According to SAMSA, one crew member fell into the sea while working on deck. AMSOL stated that emergency protocols were immediately initiated, and the crew was responding to the situation. A Fast Rescue Boat (FRB) was dispatched to begin the search and recovery of the fallen crew members, but this boat also capsized, throwing four of its crew members into the sea.
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Center in Cape was alerted to the situation and activated the search and rescue operation. The National Sea Rescue Institute and the South African Police continued the search for the five missing members. Media reports indicate that the search was halted on Thursday after SAMSA assessed the conditions, and two crew members are still missing and presumed to have died in the accident.
At the time of the incident, there were no indications of adverse weather or other conditions. AMSOL expressed condolences to the families of their colleagues and stated that they are working to assist the families. The company has also initiated an internal investigation into the circumstances of the incident and confirmed that an external investigation by SAMSA and the Department of Transport has also begun.
The Minister of Transport referenced the incident at the launch event of Transport Month in Johannesburg and called for a minute of silence.
