Search for missing fishermen transitions from an active to a passive search

The Antigua Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) along with local and regional partners have descaled search efforts to locate and rescue fishermen aboard Fishing Vessel (FV) ‘GIVE THANKS’ which was expected in port Sunday 01st December 2024.

The ABDF Coast Guard and Air Wing branches have descaled its active search and rescue (SAR) operation in locating the overdue fishing vessel (F/V) GIVE THANKS, after five (5) days of extended efforts in the region.

Lieutenant Colonel Alando Michael and Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Randolph Best met with families and friends of the fishermen onboard at the Barbuda Fisheries Office on Friday 06th December; to provide details revealing the extent of the search conducted, as well as disclose its findings.

Between the time of the initial report and landing in Barbuda on the morning of the 6th, the ABDF Coast Guard and Airwing worked tirelessly to discover evidence or clues that would successfully aid in the ongoing rescue operation.

All available assets, including governmental, non-governmental and private were mobilized locally and regionally to best improve the probabilities of locating the vessel.

The ABDF Airwing provided aerial oversight and screening of waters extending up to St. Martin, St. Barthelemy, Anguilla, and St. Kitts & Nevis; while surface assets of the ABDF Coast Guard, Anguilla SAR, St. Kitts and Nevis Defence Force Coast Guard and Montserrat Marine Police searched from the waterline in and around waters of their respective islands.

To date, there have been no leads or discoveries; leaving authorities puzzled, but hopeful.

It is important to note that the ABDF affirms to the public that the search will not be discontinued, but transitioned from an active to a passive search, where the scale of resources enabled will be limited.

Our hearts remain hopeful, and filled with faith that continued efforts will reap due results and bring closure to the affected families. God is with you, and so is the ABDF in this time of uncertainty.

Anyone who can provide information that will assist, or lead to the successful rescue of FV GIVE THANKS is urged to contact the Operations Officer, Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Randolph Best @ 268-729-5802, or the Coast Guard hotline @ 268-462-3206, 462-2841(2)(3).

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