The body of an unidentified man was recovered from the surf zone in Plettenberg Bay, and police are investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
An inquest docket has been opened to facilitate the inquiry.
On Tuesday, March 18, the NSRI Plettenberg Bay duty crew was activated following reports of lifeguards on the scene at Lookout Rocks, near Whale Tail.
Fishermen angling from the shoreline alerted Bitou shark spotters after they noticed a man floating face down in the water.
Witnesses reported seeing the man enter the water from the rocks under unclear circumstances. Shark spotters quickly notified Bitou Municipal lifeguards, who promptly responded.
Upon their arrival, the lifeguards requested assistance from the NSRI Plettenberg Bay team.
The NSRI duty crew launched the rescue craft, Ray Farnham Rescuer, from the NSRI Plettenberg Bay station 14. The South African Police Service and Western Cape Government Health EMS were also activated and responded to the scene.
Once on site, NSRI found Bitou lifeguards in the surf zone with the man’s body secured. Tragically, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The body was transported to the NSRI rescue base where EMS paramedics examined it, after which it was handed over to the police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services for further investigation.
Authorities are urging anyone who may assist in identifying the man or clarifying the incident's circumstances to contact the Plettenberg Bay Police Station at 044 5011900.
The swift action of local anglers who raised the alarm to the Bitou Municipal shark spotters, along with the coordinated response of all involved parties, has been commendably acknowledged.
As investigations continue, the community is encouraged to remain vigilant and assist law enforcement where possible.
IOL