During an ongoing search operation on Monday, 16 December, Police WPDS (Water Policing and Diving Services), police divers, assisted by SAPS COP (Community Orientated Policing) volunteers, and NSRI Wilderness crew, located and recovered a body at Sedgefield.
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While formal identification of the body is in progress, it is believed that the body located and recovered is the 20-year-old Eastern Cape man who went missing while swimming at Sedgefield on Saturday, 14 December.
WC Government Health EMS and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services attended at the scene.
The body of the deceased man was taken into the care of Police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services.
Condolences are conveyed to the family and friends of the deceased man.
Police have opened an Inquest docket.
See original media statement below ...
Jonathan Britton, NSRI Wilderness station commander, said: At 19:23, Saturday, 14 December, NSRI Wilderness duty crew were activated following reports of a drowning in progress at Sedgefield, between Myoli Beach and the Swartvlei River Mouth.
NSRI Wilderness rescue swimmers, NSRI Sedgefield lifeguards and the SA Police Services responded.
The NSRI rescue craft Lavinia was launched from the NSRI Wilderness satellite rescue station in Sedgefield.
An extensive sea and shoreline search commenced for a 20-year-old Eastern Cape man who had reportedly disappeared under water after being caught in rip currents while swimming with friends.
Despite an extensive search there remains no signs of the missing man.
Police WPDS (Water Policing and Diving Services) were activated and Police divers, assisted by local Police, NSRI Wilderness and by NSRI lifeguards are continuing in an ongoing search.
About the NSRI
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) is a registered non-profit organisation that is committed to drowning prevention and focused on saving lives, changing lives and creating futures for those threatened by drowning in South Africa.
We are unique in South Africa as the only non-profit organisation focusing exclusively on safeguarding lives and livelihoods in South African waters through education, prevention, and rescue operations. We envision a nation where drowning incidents are minimised, ensuring the safety of all.
The NSRI strives to innovate, constantly evolve, and extend our water safety initiatives through empowerment and visibility. Our volunteers are on call 24/7 and are reliant on donations and sponsorships.
Visit www.nsri.org.za for more information.
NSRI EMERGENCY: 087 094 9774
