Three Dead, Two Missing After Rescue Boat Capsizes Off Mossel Bay

Three crew members have died and two remain missing after a rescue operation turned tragic off Mossel Bay when a fast rescue boat capsized in rough seas, South Africa's Department of Transport has confirmed. The incident occurred on 30 September 2026, roughly 40 nautical miles off the coast. According to the department, the uMkhuseli Emergency Towing Vessel (ETV), managed by Amsol on behalf of the department, experienced a man-overboard incident during inclement weather after a crew member was pulled into the sea while handling a mooring line. A search and rescue operation was launched immediately, and a fast rescue boat was dispatched to assist, but it capsized in rough conditions with four crew members aboard. Three bodies have since been recovered, while the search for the two remaining missing crew members was paused overnight due to deteriorating weather and resumed the following morning. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy and Deputy Minister Mkhuleko Hlengwa extended condolences to the families of the deceased and to the maritime industry. The department praised the vessels that responded to the distress call and the National Sea Rescue Institute volunteers involved in the operation, noting that a helicopter with winch capability was deployed from Cape Town to assist. The South African Maritime Safety Authority will conduct a preliminary investigation into the incident, with Amsol supporting affected families and crew. The Congress of South African Trade Unions in the Western Cape has called for a thorough investigation to establish the cause and ensure accountability.