NSRI confirms 20-year-old man missing near Kenton-on-Sea

A 20-year-old man is missing after he failed to return home following a fishing trip along the Kariega River near Kenton-on-Sea in the Eastern Cape.

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) said its Port Alfred duty crew and auxiliary satellite station in Kenton-on-Sea were activated at 13:52 on Sunday, 20 September, following a report from police.

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The man, who is from the local area, had reportedly been fishing on the banks of the Kariega River during the night and was last seen in the early hours of Sunday morning.

Extensive search operation

NSRI rescue swimmers, shore crew and a rescue vehicle joined local police in the search.

Hitec Coastal Security, Kariega APU, Multi Security and Police K9 Search and Rescue also assisted with the operation.

The NSRI launched its rescue craft, Spirit of Kenton, as search teams worked across the river and surrounding areas.

Drones were also deployed to extend the search both within and beyond the Kariega River.

No sign of the man

Despite the extensive operation, there were no signs of the missing man.

Police K9 Search and Rescue and Water Policing and Diving Services (WPDS) are continuing the search, supported by local police, Ndlambe Municipality Community Protection Services River Control and local security teams.

Police have opened an investigation into the man’s disappearance.

The NSRI said its thoughts and care are with the man’s family and friends as the search continues.