Drone instrumental in locating drowning victim in KZN
Durban — A search and rescue crew, lifeguards and a drone company came together to help recover the body of a drowning victim.
IPSS Search and Rescue spokesperson Samantha Meyrick said that on Thursday morning, IPSS Search and Rescue helped Mandeni lifeguards locate a drowning victim at the Tugela River mouth.
She said IPSS Search and Rescue called PACSys drone pilot Elmar Vrey after man went missing from a raft at the river mouth. She said information was provided and the search began, with a heavy tide rolling in.
“The body was discovered via a drone, 100m from the mouth,” Meyrick said. “The deceased was then brought to shore by Mandeni lifeguards under the guidance of Elmar Vrey.”
Meyrick thanked Mandeni lifeguards, Rural Metro and Vrey. “The use of the drone proved invaluable in finding the man’s body and bringing his family closure before he got swept out to sea.
“Our condolences go out to the friends and family of the deceased.”
Police have been approached for comment.
On Facebook, Trevino Lawrencio thanked IPSS Search and Rescue for the quick response and recovery of their dear friend.
Meanwhile, in another body recovery, last Tuesday, IPSS Search and Rescue helped the Metro Police Search and Rescue recover a body from the side of a mountain in the Inanda area.
“The body of an adult male was located approximately 160m down a mountainside and was recovered utilising a rope system,” Meyrick said.
She said the circumstances surrounding the man’s death would form part of a police investigation.
“Our condolences to the friends and family of the deceased,” Meyrick said.
She thanked Metro Police Search and Rescue, Khanyile SAPS Search and Rescue and the community members who helped on the scene.
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Daily News