A massive sea search was launched for a missing fisherman who became separated from his friend off the Welsh coast. The multi-agency search off Cemlyn and Wylfa Head, Anglesey, was initiated at 3.30 am on Monday. The search involved RNLI Moelfre volunteers, coastguard teams from Cemaes and Holyhead, North Wales Police, Fire Service, and the Coastguard rescue helicopter.
After about three hours of searching using thermal imaging cameras, flares, and spotlights, the fisherman’s belongings were discovered near the Cemlyn lagoon. He was later found “lost and under the influence of alcohol but otherwise safe and well,” as reported by North Wales Live.
Moelfre RNLI reported that their all-weather lifeboat ‘Kiwi’ (ALB) was dispatched to reports of a missing person last seen fishing off Cemlyn. When the friend returned to the car, the other person was nowhere to be seen. Mobile Coastguard teams and other agencies conducted searches ashore and at sea.
The volunteers from Moelfre and the Coastguard rescue helicopter utilized various tools such as night vision, thermal imaging cameras, searchlights, and white parachute flares during the search. The fisherman’s personal belongings were found by the lagoon in Cemlyn, prompting shore-based search parties to focus their efforts ashore.
Despite challenging coastline conditions, the search continued until it was confirmed that the individual had been found ashore, safe but disoriented due to alcohol consumption. Moelfre lifeboat coxswain Vince Jones praised the collaborative multi-agency teamwork and reminded people to have appropriate equipment and avoid alcohol consumption near water to prevent similar incidents.
The search, though successful in this instance, highlighted the importance of preparedness and responsible behaviour when venturing to the coast. The collaborative efforts of the rescue teams ensured a positive outcome despite the initial concerns for the missing fisherman’s safety.