Search and rescue operations are ongoing for three fishermen who remain missing after their vessel failed to return to port earlier this week, according to Antigua.news.
The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard received notification at approximately 5:40 p.m. on Thursday that the fishing vessel "Faith P" had not returned as expected. The vessel had departed on Wednesday morning, March 11, to fish in waters roughly 12.5 nautical miles south to southwest of Barbuda.
The three men aboard the vessel have been identified as Devon Prince, also known as "Grease Gun," Adrian Pryce, called "Ivan," and Carlton Pitt, who goes by the nickname "Nagamootoo."
Coast Guard officials noted that sea conditions were unfavorable at the time the report was received, prompting authorities to immediately escalate the response to the distress phase of the search and rescue system.
Authorities have since issued an Urgent Marine Information Broadcast (UMIB) on VHF Channel 16, which continues to air in cycles, calling on mariners in the area to watch for any sign of the missing vessel or its occupants.
The Coast Guard has mobilized a multi-agency search operation. Assisting in the effort are the ABDF Air Wing, the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre Fort-de-France in Martinique, Antigua and Barbuda Search and Rescue (ABSAR), Barbuda Fisheries, and members of the Urlings fishing community.
Anyone with information that could assist in locating the vessel is urged to contact the Coast Guard hotline at 268-462-3206 or 268-462-2841, or reach Operations Officer Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Randolph Best directly at 268-729-5802.
The ABDF reaffirmed its commitment to serving and protecting the citizens of the twin-island nation, assuring the families of the missing men that every effort is being made to locate the vessel and return their loved ones home safely.
