Jonathan Tufts, NSRI Port Elizabeth deputy station commander, said it seemed that two teenagers and a 20-year-old man were swimming when they were caught in rip currents.

"A 28-year-old bystander launched into the surf to try to help but he was swept away by rip currents," said Tufts in a statement. A 17-year-old made it to shore and was not injured, but the 28-year-old who wanted to help and the 20-year-old were missing. A massive search alongside multiple other emergency organisations was launched for them.

NMB Beach Office lifeguards launched a RIB (Rigid Inflatable Boat) to search for the 2 missing males.

Paramedics had continued with CPR efforts on the teenager and despite extensive CPR efforts, after all efforts to resuscitate the teenager were exhausted, sadly he was declared deceased.

NSRI Port Elizabeth duty were activated to respond to assist in a search for the 2 missing men.

Maritime Business World