In a heart-wrenching situation off the coast of Safi, Moroccan authorities are diligently conducting search and rescue operations for five fishermen who have mysteriously vanished. The Ministry of Maritime Fisheries confirmed on Sunday that these fishermen were aboard a traditional fishing boat named Lalla Khadija, which set out from the port of Safi on Thursday for a fishing expedition. The boat was anticipated to return the following day, but when it failed to arrive, the owner notified the authorities around 5 p.m. on Friday, prompting immediate action.
Search operations were swiftly initiated following the alert, with the Maritime Search and Rescue Coordination Center based in Bouznika taking charge of the rescue efforts. In a coordinated response, authorities have mobilized rescue boats from both the Safi and Agadir ports, as well as redirected fishing boats and commercial vessels to the area where the Lalla Khadija is believed to have encountered difficulties.
In addition to maritime resources, aerial support is being provided by two helicopters operated by the Royal Gendarmerie and the Royal Navy, which have been conducting extensive searches from above. However, the operation has been significantly hampered by challenging weather and sea conditions, as noted by the ministry. Despite these obstacles, the search is ongoing, involving both civilian and military personnel.
Authorities have also reached out to fishing boats and commercial vessels operating in or transiting through the area, urging them to assist in the search for the missing fishermen. As of Monday, there were no confirmed updates regarding the boat's whereabouts or the crew's status, but the ministry assured the public that further information would be shared as soon as reliable data becomes available.
The disappearance of these fishermen has sparked considerable concern within the local community in Safi, where fishing is not only a traditional livelihood but also a vital economic activity. Families and colleagues of the missing men are anxiously awaiting news, while authorities continue their efforts to locate the vessel and ensure the safety of the five fishermen.
As reported by moroccoworldnews.com.
