Search for three missing fishermen abandoned
MISSING MEN
More than a week after they went missing, the search for three Yarrabah men in waters off the Far North coast has been called off.
The men, aged 18, 27 and 37, were last seen having engine trouble near Green Island during a fishing trip on 26 January.
Over the last seven days a large-scale land, sea, and aerial search between Yarrabah and Cooktown, which spanned over 4,210 square nautical miles, has failed to find the missing trio.
However, a number of items from the vessel were located in the water and on the shore around Cape Tribulation during the search, including fuel containers and a life jacket.
Acting Inspector Andy Cowie today confirmed that following advice from experts, the search and rescue was discontinued yesterday afternoon and the family was notified.
“It’s a very terrible circumstance for the family to be in and they are devastated by this information,” he said.
“Three men, two from the same family, and the third closely related, that’s had a strong impact on the community.”
“It was a very tough conversation for everyone.
“We set out to find someone and we haven’t been able to do that."
Police however will continue to investigate the matter as a report is being prepared for the Coroner.
Investigating officers are encouraging anyone who was out on the water on January 26 who may have seen the missing men to contact police. Investigators are specifically focusing on anyone who was between Bat Reef and Yarrabah on that day.
“Any items that are also located along the coastline that may be the debris from that vessel, can you please record that location, the time that you located, and immediately contact police," Acting Inspector Cowie said.
“That information is critical in giving some answers to the family.”