The Marine Unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force is again urging boat operators to exercise responsibility following two recent sea rescues.
Around 8 pm on April 22nd, the Unit received a report that two males had left Providenciales onboard a red and black boat at 7 a.m. to go fishing.
The men were expected to return at 3 pm. When they failed to do so, a report was made. Officers of the Marine Unit went to an area south of Providenciales in search of the vessel.
The vessel was found just off the Bluff area with the male occupants, who explained they experienced engine problems.
The marine vessel assisted them safely into South Dock. Both men appeared to be in good health.
On Saturday, April 20, 2024, the Police Control Room received a report that two males had departed North Caicos on a white 19-foot Proline boat for a fishing trip and did not return.
They were last seen near the ship channel off of South Caicos.
The Marine Unit was informed and, together with local fishermen from North Caicos, searched several areas. The search was discontinued due to light challenges.
On April 21st, around 6 am, the search resumed.
The missing vessel was seen in the vicinity of Ship Channel by persons aboard a Caicos Express Airways plane.
The victims, when rescued, were dehydrated and towed to North Caicos by persons known to them. The victims told police their boat had engine problems.