The Fisheries branch of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) wishes to extend its condolences to the families and colleagues of the fishermen who perished on sea on Sunday. DAFF is also hoping for the safe return of the other crewmen who are still missing.
Eleven fishermen lost their lives off the False Bay coastline on Sunday after the trawler they were traveling in took in water. There were twenty one crew members in total. Nine swam to safety. Two crew members are still missing.
The trawler belongs to The Viking Fishing Company.
Siphokazi Ndudane, Acting Deputy Director General of the Fisheries branch says news of the accident have shocked the entire fishing sector.
“We are in contact with The Viking Fishing Company and will be making contact with family members of the deceased fishermen once we have all their particulars. We urge for a thorough investigation to get to the cause of this tragedy.”