The Royal Bahamas Defence Force is currently engaged in two (2) separate search and rescue efforts.
Search and Rescue Effort 1: Missing Bahamian Fishermen
In a collaborative effort involving the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF), Operation Bahamas and Turks & Caicos (OPBAT), and the United States Coast Guard (USCG), a search and rescue mission is currently underway for two Bahamian fishermen who went missing at sea. The two individuals set out on a 16 ft skiff and were expected to return to their Mother Ship. Unfortunately, they have not been seen since.
The search is concentrated in the area of the skiff’s last known position, estimated to be just under 15 nautical miles (Nm) off from Cay Sal. The RBDF vessel HMBS MADEIRA, in conjunction with a fixed-wing aircraft from the USCG, is actively scouring the area, meticulously searching for any signs of the missing fishermen. Every effort is being made to locate them and ensure their safe return.
Search and Rescue Effort 2: Passenger Overboard from Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship
In a separate incident, a passenger aboard the Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship reportedly jumped from the vessel, according to an eyewitness account. This situation has triggered an immediate response from both the cruise ship’s crew and the authorities. Currently, the cruise ship remains in the area, actively participating in the search and rescue operation for the missing passenger.
Operation Bahamas and Turks & Caicos (OPBAT) has also allocated an aircraft to aid in the search, as the last known position of the passenger was approximately 35 nautical miles (Nm) from Anguilla Cay. Due to the relative proximity of the two incidents, the RBDF vessel HMBS MADEIRA, which is already involved in the first search effort, will also be assisting in this second search, further enhancing the search and rescue capabilities in the area.
Both search and rescue missions are of utmost importance, and the involved organizations are committed to utilizing all available resources and expertise to locate the missing individuals and ensure their safety. The efforts continue, and updates will be provided as soon as more information becomes available.
(RBDF File Photo)
