A large-scale search operation was launched at Bloubergstrand Beach in Table View yesterday afternoon (Sunday 24 August) after an unidentified man went missing in the surf near Dolphin Beach Hotel. Despite an extensive sea, air, and shoreline effort, he has not yet been found.
The duty crew of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) in Melkbosstrand were activated following eyewitness reports of a man in difficulty in the water. Rescue swimmers responded directly to the scene, while additional crews launched the rescue craft Rotary’s Gift and Rescue 18 Alpha from the station.
Emergency services including the City of Cape Town’s Water Rescue Network, Western Cape EMS, Big Bay Surf Lifesaving Club, the police, Community Medics, ER24, law enforcement, and Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services joined the operation.
An EMS Aerial Drone Rescue Unit conducted aerial sweeps, while three rescue boats searched the surf zone and beyond. Free-dive search efforts were also carried out by rescue swimmers.
Despite the extensive efforts, no sign of the man has been found. He is believed to be a black male, wearing shorts and a pink cap, who disappeared after getting into difficulty in the surf zone.
Shocked beachgoers describe the ordeal
Several beachgoers who witnessed the incident described the frightening scenes.
Melissa Jansen, a local mother walking with her children, said: “We saw him waving and struggling in the water. People started shouting for help. It was terrifying, especially for the kids to watch.”
Kevin Lewis, a jogger on the beachfront, remarked: “It all happened so quickly. One moment he was visible, the next he was gone. It shows how unpredictable the ocean can be.”
Appealing to public for information
NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon said: “This was an intensive multi-agency operation with rescue craft, aerial drones, and shoreline teams searching in challenging conditions. Sadly, the missing male has not yet been located, and the search remains ongoing. We are appealing to anyone who may have information that could assist to urgently contact Table View Police Station or the NSRI Emergency Operations Centre.”
Police divers from the Water Policing and Diving Services are expected to continue search efforts in the coming days.
The NSRI is urging anyone with information that may help identify the missing man to call Table View Police Station (021 521 3338), Police 10111, or the NSRI EOC (087 094 9774).
“We commend the eyewitnesses who quickly raised the alarm. Their fast action ensured rescue resources were on the scene within minutes,” Lambinon added.
The search for the missing man continues.
