Community and Authorities Unite in Search for Graham Howes
A large-scale search entered its second day on Monday as authorities, volunteers, and local residents continue the urgent hunt for Graham Howes, a 38-year-old experienced kite-surfer from the Bloubergstrand community, who went missing on Sunday afternoon.
Howes was last seen around 13:00 wearing a black wetsuit, riding a blue and black kite-board with a white kite sail marked with red writing. When he failed to return later that afternoon, his family raised the alarm, prompting the NSRI Melkbosstrand duty crew to be activated at 19:59.
Multi-Agency Effort Launched
The response to Howes’ disappearance has been comprehensive. Rescue operations are covering air, sea, and shoreline patrols, drawing in a network of specialized teams and community volunteers:
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NSRI vessels including Rotary’s Gift, DHL Deliverer, Spirit of Day, and Spirit of DHL II patrolled coastal waters.
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Shoreline searches deployed quad-bikes and coordinated volunteers.
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Drone teams from Metro Rescue EMS performed aerial infrared sweeps.
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SAPS opened a formal missing persons investigation.
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Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) and Telkom Maritime Radio Services issued alerts to vessels.
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City of Cape Town water rescue teams, Police Diving Services, and Robben Island environmental officers remain on high alert.
The search zone spans from Eden on the Bay northwest toward Robben Island, Bokpunt, Yzerfontein, and Dassen Island, carefully calculated based on wind, sea currents, and weather conditions.
Community on High Alert
Bloubergstrand’s tight-knit kite-surfing community has rallied behind the search, with neighborhood watch groups and coastal residents assisting authorities. Fishing vessels and private boats have been urged to stay vigilant and report any potential sightings immediately.
Social media in the local kite-surfing circles has seen an outpouring of concern and solidarity. Many share memories and photos of Howes, highlighting his experience and dedication to the sport, while calling on anyone in the area to remain alert.
Every Lead Counts
Despite overnight efforts and extensive searches, Graham Howes remains missing, and authorities are keeping all possibilities open. Anyone with information that could assist in locating him is asked to contact Craig Lambinon – NSRI Communications at +27 82 380 3800.
The unfolding search underscores the risks of extreme water sports and the importance of community vigilance, as well as the dedication of Cape Town’s rescue teams in responding to emergencies at sea.
A Moment to Reflect
Kite-surfing is one of the region’s most popular coastal sports, drawing enthusiasts from around South Africa. While the activity offers adrenaline and freedom, the search for Howes serves as a stark reminder of the ocean’s unpredictability, even for experienced athletes.
Local residents and fellow kite-surfers continue to hope for a safe outcome as the search operation continues into its third day.
{Source: The South African}
Featured Image: X {@2oceansvibe}
