The NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew was activated in response to reports via a community WhatsApp group of a drowning in progress at Stilbaai, between Robberg Nature Reserve and Kranshoek, near Plettenberg Bay, Cape {town} Etc reports.
Also read: Watch: Mossel Bay NSRI saves man washed off rocks
A Kranshoek man (believed to be 30 years old) had arrived at a residence above the cliffs of a popular hiking trail and fishing coastline, where he reported that his friend, aged 22, also from Krasnshoek, had been swept off rocks by a wave at Stilbaai while they were on the shoreline, and he was in danger in the water.
NSRI is unsure of the circumstances surrounding the two men’s presence at Stilbaai.
The man stated that he attempted to save his companion, but with no mobile coverage in the remote region, he took the agonising decision to run for help.
After travelling a long way, he arrived at a farm above the cliffs and requested that the people sound the alarm.
The resident, believed to be a local farmer, notified Tech Security, and NSRI was activated, along with WC Government Health EMS Metro Control and SA Police Services (SAPS).
Find your perfect set of wheels with these incredible deals on cars for under 100k. Find car listings here.
The NSRI rescue craft The Courtenay’s Rescue and Free Runner were launched and dispatched to the location.
It was established that due to the enormous distance that the man had to go to reach a location where the alarm could be activated, some significant time had passed since the occurrence.
Duran de Villiers, a local Good Samaritan, volunteered to respond to the event aboard his private boat from Knysna, accompanied by his aerial drone, to aid the NSRI and the rescue services.
Duran is lauded for volunteering in the extended search efforts.
It was established that due to the enormous distance that the man had to travel to reach a location where the alarm could be activated, some significant time had passed since the incident occurred.
Police later brought the companion back to the spot to show where he had been washed off the rocks by a wave.
On rescue resources arrival on the scene, during the incoming tide, sea conditions were found to be rough and extensive search efforts were commenced.
An extensive sea, air and shoreline search has revealed no signs of the missing man.
SAPS WPDS are continuing in an ongoing search and Police are investigating the circumstances of the incident.
The friend of the missing man, who had reportedly earlier tried desperately to save his friend, before making the difficult decision to run for help, despite the significant distance he needed to traverse to raise the alarm was later transported to hospital by EMS ambulance in a stable condition for care for shock.
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city, at half the price? Get exclusive offers here.
Also read:
Picture: NSRI / Facebook
