A 27-year-old man is missing after reportedly being caught in rip currents while attempting to help his friend at Alkantstrand Main Beach in Richards Bay.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) said its Richards Bay duty crew was activated at 17:33 on Sunday following eyewitness reports of a drowning in progress.
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Initial reports indicated that two people were in distress in the surf zone and appeared to have been caught in rip currents.
However, further emergency calls received while rescuers were responding indicated that one man had managed to reach the shore, while the other had disappeared in the surf.
On arrival, rescue teams confirmed that a 26-year-old man was safely ashore, but his 27-year-old friend was missing.
Friend reportedly caught in rip currents
According to NSRI Richards Bay station commander Norman Rautenbach, it appears that the 26-year-old man may have been caught in rip currents while swimming.
His friend reportedly tried to assist him but was then caught in the dangerous currents himself.
NSRI rescue swimmers and a rescue vehicle responded alongside the South African Police Service (SAPS), Police Search and Rescue, uMhlathuze Fire and Rescue Services, and Mounties Emergency Medical Services.
An extensive search was conducted, but no signs of the missing man were found.
The 26-year-old survivor was assessed by paramedics at the scene and did not require further medical treatment.
Search for missing swimmer continues
Police Search and Rescue teams are continuing their efforts to locate the missing man.
Police have also opened an investigation into the incident.
The NSRI expressed its thoughts and care for the missing man’s family and friends as the search continues.
Rip currents can quickly carry swimmers away from the shore, making it dangerous for even strong swimmers to attempt a rescue without assistance.
Beachgoers are urged to exercise caution in the surf and seek help from lifeguards or emergency services when someone is in distress.