The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has confirmed the suspension of the search and rescue (SAR) operation for the tug LEO, which sank approximately 80 nautical miles south of Mossel Bay.
The operation was called off at sunset on 2 March 2026, following a coordinated multi-agency effort. The vessel had 18 crew members on board at the time of the incident. 12 survivors have been safely disembarked at the Port of Port Elizabeth, where they received medical care and support. Nine were rescued by the container vessel Maersk Karachi, while three were saved by the RoRo vessel Grand Hero.
In addition, 1 deceased crew member has been recovered. Formal identification is ongoing in collaboration with relevant authorities. The body was recovered by the fishing vessel Boronia and landed in Port Elizabeth.
Unfortunately, five crew members remain missing, despite extensive surface and aerial searches conducted since the first MAYDAY distress call.
Throughout the SAR operation, multiple vessels and aircraft were deployed under the coordination of the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Cape Town.
SAMSA has issued a navigation warning 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 urged to report any sightings of debris, pollution, or persons in the water to MRCC Cape Town or Cape Town Radio.
