Tragedy struck over the weekend as a Nigerian vessel encountered rough seas along the South African coastline, leaving one crew member dead and five others unaccounted for.
South African rescue teams successfully pulled 12 crew members to safety after a Nigerian tug boat, identified as LEO, sank in treacherous waters late Saturday night. The vessel was carrying 18 people when disaster struck approximately 18 nautical miles offshore, between Cape Town and Durban.
According to reports, the ill-fated vessel was making its way back to Lagos after completing repair work in South Africa when it ran aground in rough seas. The incident has since prompted a full-scale search and rescue operation by South African maritime authorities.
Federal Government Confirms Rescue Operations
Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, confirmed the development on Monday after receiving updates from South African officials. She disclosed that the South African Maritime Safety Authority is coordinating the rescue efforts and transporting the 12 survivors to Port Elizabeth.
“The South African Ministry of Transportation informed us of this incident, and search and rescue efforts are ongoing,” Mrs Odumegwu-Ojukwu stated, adding that officials from the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa are heading to Port Elizabeth to receive and assist the rescued crew members.
Search Continues for Missing Crew
While the rescue of 12 crew members offers hope, authorities have confirmed one fatality, and five people remain missing. South African maritime teams continue to scour the waters in the affected area, racing against time to locate the missing seafarers.
Investigations have also commenced to determine the exact circumstances that led to the vessel running aground in rough seas.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by maritime workers and the importance of stringent safety measures for vessels navigating international waters.
Our thoughts and prayers remain with the families of those affected by this tragic incident as rescue operations continue.
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This is a developing story. More details will be provided as information becomes available.
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