The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) hereby confirms that the search and rescue (SAR) operation for the tug LEO, which sank approximately 80 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay was officially suspended at sunset yesterday 2 March 2026 following an extensive multi-agency effort.
A total of 18 crew members were on board the vessel at the time of the incident. The verified status of the crew is as follows:
- 12 Surviving crew members have been safely disembarked in Port of Port Elizabeth, where they have received medical attention and support. 9 of the above crew members were rescued by a container vessel Maersk Karachi and the other 3 were rescued by RoRo vessel Grand Hero.
- 1 deceased crew member has been recovered, with formal identification underway in collaboration with relevant authorities. The deceased body was recovered by Fishing Vessel Boronia and subsequently landed in the port of Port Elizabeth.
- 5 crew members remain missing, despite extensive surface and aerial search operations conducted since the first MAYDAY distress call was received.
Throughout the operation, multiple vessels and air assets were deployed to support the SAR mission under the coordination of the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Cape Town.
A navigation warning will remain active, advising mariners transiting the area of potential debris, the last‑known position of the sunken vessel, and the presence of unrecovered life‑rafts. Mariners are requested to continue reporting any sightings of debris, pollution, or persons in the water to MRCC Cape Town or Cape Town Radio.
SAMSA acknowledges the dedication of all partner agencies and vessels (Maersk Karachi, RoRo vessel Grand Hero and Fishing Vessel Boronia) who worked tirelessly under challenging conditions, including strong winds, high swells, and limited visibility. The Authority, together with the South African Search and Rescue Organisation (SASAR), extends heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased crew member and its deepest sympathies to the families of the five seafarers who remain missing during this difficult time.
Further updates will be provided as new verified information emerges.