Search suspended for missing crewman
Tuesday 17 August 2004
Search suspended for missing crewman
Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ) confirmed at 1.05pm, today the operation to locate a crewman missing from the fishing boat Iron Maiden that came to grief off Cape Reinga last night had been suspended.
“This decision has not been taken lightly but we are confident that with the expert help of Police, the RNZAF and other vessels we have thoroughly covered the search area and done all we can to locate the missing crewman,” said RCCNZ General Manager Chris Raley.
“We have taken advice on local conditions and extended the search areas but unfortunately have failed to locate the missing crewman. We’d like to acknowledge the assistance willingly given to us by all parties in this tragic incident.”
The Maritime Safety Authority will be launching a full investigation into the incident.
ENDS