Two drown in separate incidents - Westbrook and Sheffield

IPSS Search and Rescue alongside CERT KZN and Ethekweni Lifeguards responded to Westbrook Beach near Tongaat where an adult male has reportedly drowned.

Reports from the scene indicate that an adult male got into difficulty whilst swimming in the ocean at approximately 16h00 today. Despite a quick response from Ethekweni Lifeguards on duty, the man disappeared under the water before they could reach him. Strong currents and rough waters made it difficult for lifeguards to locate the man.

IPSS Search and Rescue teams were called for assistance and launched watercraft to continue searching for the man.

Whilst busy attempting to locate the drowning victim at Westbrook Beach, IPSS Search and Rescue received reports of another drowning in progress at Christmas Bay in Sheffield.

Additional IPSS Search and Rescue units were deployed to assist KDM Lifeguards. Reports from the scene indicate that 16-year-old male got into difficulty whilst swimming and disappeared under the water.

KDM Lifeguards launched a watercraft and, with the assistance of Search and Rescue personnel, conducted a search for the teen.

Unfortunately, due to fading light unsafe surf conditions both search operations have been called off and will continue at first light tomorrow.