Cape Town – The search for 17-year-old French rugby player Medhi Narjissi, who was swept out to sea at Dias Beach near Cape Point, has been temporarily halted due to severe sea conditions.
Narjissi went missing on Wednesday after being caught in a strong rip current during a team recovery session.
The search, initially suspended due to bad weather, was briefly resumed but has now been paused again, Times Live reported.
“The search will continue when conditions improve. Neighbouring police stations have also been alerted to be on the lookout at their beaches.
“Investigations [and a] search continue along coastal lines,” the report quoted Western Cape spokesperson Capt FC van Wyk as saying.
Authorities are continuing investigations and have alerted nearby police stations to monitor their beaches.
Narjissi’s family has arrived in South Africa, and the search will resume when conditions improve.
Meanwhile, condolence messages have continued on social media following the sad news
Everyone at England Rugby is extremely saddened to hear of the devastating news concerning France Rugby U18 Men’s player Medhi Narjissi.
The thoughts of everyone at England Rugby are with Narjissi’s family, friends and colleagues at this extremely difficult time. The shocking… pic.twitter.com/dgkg3AMi85
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) August 9, 2024
SA Rugby sends condolences to the French rugby and the family of U18 player Medhi Narjissi, who was swept out to sea during a recovery session at Cape Point on Wednesday – more here: https://t.co/PM4ZBdisY0 🇫🇷 pic.twitter.com/zmik0WTPej
— SA Junior Rugby (@SAJuniorRugby) August 8, 2024
Remembering Medhi Narjissi, U18 French Rugby International swept out to sea yesterday. A tragic loss to his family, friends and world rugby. RIP pic.twitter.com/rIKbOr6kG8
— Cllr Paul Canal (@PaulCanal2010) August 9, 2024
Our thoughts and our prayers are with Medhi Narjissi’s family and his #FranceU18 and Club teammates at this incredibly difficult time. 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/SlDJwCN4sw
— Marzio Innocenti – Presidente FIR (@PresidenteFIR) August 8, 2024
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
