Fishermen saved, seafarer rushed to hospital in Durban

Durban witnessed two significant maritime rescue operations over the weekend, involving local fishermen and a seafarer in need of urgent medical attention. On Friday, a Filipino crew member aboard a bulk carrier was successfully evacuated, while on Saturday, four fishermen were rescued after their vessel experienced mechanical failure. Both incidents showcased the collaborative efforts of various rescue agencies.

Medical Evacuation of Seafarer

The first incident unfolded on Friday, August 8, when the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) received an urgent call regarding a 33-year-old Filipino crew member aboard a bulk carrier. The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) alerted NSRI and Red Line ambulance services the previous evening to prepare for the medical evacuation operation.

NSRI’s rescue craft, Alick Rennie, met the bulk carrier approximately six nautical miles off the Durban coast in calm seas. A rescue paramedic, along with two Maritime Extrication (MEX) crew members, boarded the vessel to assess the condition of the patient, who was reported to be stable. After ensuring the crew member’s safety, he was secured with safety lines and transferred to the rescue craft.

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Following the transfer, the seafarer was taken to NSRI’s Durban Station 5 and subsequently transported by Red Line ambulance to a local hospital for further medical care. This operation highlighted the efficiency and readiness of the rescue teams in responding to emergencies at sea.

Fishermen Rescued After Mechanical Failure

NSRI Durban duty coxswain Benic van der Merwe reported that the rescue craft Spirit of Surfski 6 located the stranded boat, which was anchored and had its crew unharmed. The fishermen were towed back to their slipway without any further incidents, and they did not require additional assistance.

Earlier in the day, the training exercise had also supported police divers in the ongoing search for a missing teenager at Wedge Beach. Both rescue operations were coordinated with the help of multiple agencies, including the Port Health Authority, Police Sea Borderline Control, and Telkom Maritime Radio Services, showcasing a strong collaborative effort in maritime safety and emergency response.