A 22-year-old Rhodes University student from Limpopo has gone missing after being caught in a rip current during an early morning swim at East Beach in Port Alfred.
The incident occurred at approximately 01:42 on Friday.
According to the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), the student had been swimming with two friends – another male and a female – when all three were reportedly pulled into the surf by strong rip currents.
The two friends managed to swim to safety and did not sustain any injuries.
The third student, however, vanished in the surf and has not been seen since.
NSRI launched immediate search
The NSRI Port Alfred station launched an immediate search and rescue operation involving rescue swimmers, a rescue craft (Rescue 11 Alpha), and a shoreline response vehicle.
They were joined by the South African Police Service (SAPS), Multi Security, the SAPS K9 Search and Rescue Unit, and the SAPS Water Policing and Diving Services (WPDS).
Despite an extensive land and sea search throughout the day, no trace of the missing man has been found.
Police have confirmed that an investigation has been opened, and search efforts are ongoing.
Condolences and support
The identities of the students have not been released, and the two survivors have requested privacy.
NSRI spokespersons expressed their condolences and support to the student’s family and friends.
“Our thoughts are with the family and friends of the missing man in this difficult time.”
Authorities have urged the public to be cautious when swimming at unguarded beaches and to avoid swimming alone or during night hours when rescue resources are limited.
Do you risk swimming at beaches with no lifeguards?
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