Georgetown: A seabob trawler that capsized and sank with three fishermen has ignited fears of their demise after the vessel went down in coastal waters some 18 miles off Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara in the Atlantic sea Saturday morning.
Reports indicate that the trawler was being used by Captain Harold Damon, 44, a father of three; Ronald Burton, 75, a father of 10, both of Agricola East Bank Demerara; Winston Sam, 46, and Vincent Dazzell.
However, Dazzell was reportedly rescued by another boat, but the Captain and two others remain missing at sea.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Public Works on Sunday announced an immediate and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the reported capsizing of a boat owned by Noble House Seafood, in Coastal waters some 18 miles off Mahaicony, following which several fishermen are now missing.
In a statement the Ministry noted that an independent panel was established comprising representatives of the Ministry of Public Works, MARAD, GDF Coast Guard, the GPF Marine Unit, and the Transport and Habours Department.
“We are very concerned, and share the anxiety and pain of the family members and colleagues of the missing men. The Search and Rescue Operation Center was immediately activated, upon notification of this incident. Vessels and personnel, including divers have been deployed,” the Public Works Ministry added.
The Ministry assured all concerned that all available resources of the state, to aid in this search and rescue exercise will be fully utilized.
The private sector including private fishing vessels, the Ministry added are also engaged in this ongoing operation.
