NSRI investigates floating survival suits mystery near Cape Town beaches

NSRI

Cape Town – The NSRI is investigating the mysterious discovery of seven survival immersion suits found drifting near Cape Town beaches, including St James Beach, Fish Hoek Beach, and other locations in False Bay.

Despite extensive efforts, no vessels in distress or other incidents have been reported, leaving the origin of the suits unknown.

Minimal markings on the suits and their possible resale history have hindered identification efforts, despite assistance from the Chinese manufacturers who produced them in 2015.

The NSRI suspects the suits may have been discarded at sea by a passing vessel.

“During Saturday night City of Cape Town Law Enforcement Marine Unit officers located another two survival immersion suits that were recovered on Sunday morning, 19 January, by NSRI Strandfontein – one close to False Bay Surf Lifesaving Club, and one at Sonwabe Beach,” NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon said, according to The Citizen.

“Now a total of seven survival immersion suits that we are aware of that have been located in False Bay over the past 24 hours. It is odd for this type of survival equipment to be found adrift or coming ashore and the mystery as to their origin deepens.”

The NSRI continues to monitor the situation, urging the maritime community and public to report further findings, while remaining cautiously optimistic that the suits are not linked to any maritime disaster.

Meanwhile Search efforts are underway for a 31-year-old man swept out to sea during a baptism ceremony at Beacon Bay in East London.

Despite extensive sea and shoreline searches, no signs of the man have been found, EWN reported. 

The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI) confirmed that police divers are continuing the search and expressed condolences to the man’s family, friends, and church congregation during this difficult time. 

“Despite an extensive sea and shoreline search, there remains no signs of the missing man. Police divers are continuing in an ongoing search. Thoughts, care and compassion are with the family, friends and the church congregation, of the missing man in this difficult time,” EWN quoted NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon as saying.

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