PORT ELIZABETH - FISHERMAN DIES AFTER ASTHMA ATTACK OFF PE COASTLINE

Ian Gray, NSRI Port Elizabeth station commander, said:

At 01h30, Monday, 22nd February, NSRI Port Elizabeth duty crew were activated by the Transnet National Ports Authority (TNPA) following a request for urgent medical assistance from the Chokka fishing boat Gambit reporting a 51 year old local crewman onboard suffering an Asthma attack.

The vessel was 20 nautical miles West of Cape Recife and heading towards Port Elizabeth at best speed while crew onboard attempted to administer first aid to their fellow crewman.

NSRI Port Elizabeth launched the sea rescue craft Eikos Rescuer IV accompanied by a Relay paramedic services paramedic and rendezvoused with the fishing vessel 4 nautical miles West of Cape Recife in 2 to 3 meter rough sea swells and a 15 knot South Westerly wind.

Sadly the paramedic declared the fisherman deceased and arrangements have been made by the owners for the body of the deceased fisherman to be recovered.

The vessel sustained motor mechanical failure during the voyage towards Port Elizabeth and the owners have arranged for the vessel to be towed to Port for repairs.

VIA - nsri.org.za