Indian Seafarer Evacuated from Vessel Near Durban Due to Medical Emergency

A 32-year-old Indian seafarer was evacuated from a container vessel off the Port of Durban early Sunday morning due to a serious medical condition. The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) reported that their Durban crew was alerted to prepare for the evacuation, coordinating with a duty doctor and the ship’s medical staff for assistance.

The vessel arrived sooner than anticipated, allowing NSRI to launch their rescue craft at 6:55 AM. The crew rendezvoused with the vessel six nautical miles offshore in calm conditions. The patient, under the care of the ship’s medical team, was transferred to the rescue craft using a Stokes basket stretcher. He was subsequently transported to the NSRI base and then to the hospital in serious but stable condition, with expectations of a full recovery.

In a separate incident, NSRI Port Edward responded to a distress call regarding a suspected drowning at a resort. A 27-year-old man from Durban was found unresponsive in a swimming pool and was declared dead by paramedics. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident, and an inquest has been opened. Condolences have been extended to the deceased’s family and friends.

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