Tug operator Amsol has reached out to the families of the three seafarers whose bodies were recovered off Mossel Bay, as well as to the families of the two individuals still missing. The incident occurred 47 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay when one crew member fell overboard from the tug Umkhuseli while working on deck. In an attempt to rescue their colleague, the remaining four seafarers launched a fast rescue boat, which unfortunately capsized, throwing all of them into the sea.
Amsol, which operates the Umkhuseli and employs the five seafarers, confirmed that the search for the two missing crew members resumed at first light on Thursday, with the tug Inkanyezi actively involved in the search efforts. Amsol’s CEO expressed deep sorrow over the loss of three valued colleagues and stated that the company has been in close contact with the families, providing support and updates as new information becomes available.
The Umkhuseli, an 83-meter offshore tug and supply vessel registered in South Africa, was on safety standby near the FA Platform when the incident occurred. The South African Maritime Safety Authority (Samsa) coordinated the search efforts, involving nearby vessels, the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), and police helicopters. Following the recovery of two bodies, which were transported to George Airport, Samsa concluded the active search and rescue operation and has initiated a preliminary inquiry into the incident. Amsol has also commenced both internal and external investigations.
