A series of devastating sea accidents have struck the coastal communities of Sulima, Begbeghun, Delken, and Mania in the Pujehun and Bonthe Districts, resulting in the death of one fisherman and leaving several others missing.

The tragic incidents occurred during a recent fishing expedition and were reportedly caused by heavy storms in the area.

Local residents confirmed that one fisherman was rescued, but multiple others remain unaccounted for. The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources, in collaboration with the Maritime Administration and other partners, has launched a joint search and rescue operation in an effort to locate the missing fishermen.

The Ministry has expressed its deepest condolences to the bereaved families and is hopeful for the swift recovery of those still missing. In an official statement, the Ministry emphasized the importance of adhering to early warning signs related to weather conditions and urged all fishermen nationwide to exercise caution, particularly during periods of torrential rains and storms.

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In addition to the incidents in the southern districts, unconfirmed reports have emerged of the deaths of two other fishermen from York Village in the Western Area Rural District. The Ministry is currently investigating these reports.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources continues to monitor the situation and has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of all fishermen across Sierra Leone.