Pemba Island, Zanzibar: Official press release from Swahili Divers

We have heard and received many conflicting stories regarding the missing divers off Pemba Island in Zanzibar. Here is the official PRESS RELEASE from Swahili Divers sent out on 19 July 2005.

At 1504 EAT on Saturday 16 July two groups of divers commenced a dive off Misali Island, off Pemba (part of the Zanzibar archipelago off Tanzania).

Both groups were led by experienced dive leaders. Only one group was recovered by the dive boat after completing their dive. One group of five divers is still missing.

A sea, air and land search was immediately initiated and has continued for the past three days around the Pemban, Tanzanian and Kenyan coasts. This search is being organised and largely funded by Swahili Divers. The burden of coordination is particularly onerous as we are searching for one of our friends.

A buoyancy control device (inflatable vest) belonging to one of the missing divers was recovered from a sandbank to the north of Pemba on 17 July. There have been unconfirmed reports from aircraft of divers’ air tanks spotted off the west coast of Pemba. Apart from this there has been no sign of the divers.

The circumstances surrounding their disappearance are a complete mystery. The dive vessel never stopped observing the dive site, and our Instructor and general manager, was extremely experienced.

At this stage we can confirm the missing group comprises of four Danish divers and their Canadian instructor. Their next of kin have been informed.

We appreciate that after being missing for three days the chances of locating the divers alive are much reduced. But we trust in God and remain hopeful. Tomorrow (20 July) we will continue to search by vessel and helicopter. We ask that any vessel or aircraft able to assist contact us on +255 24 2452786.

Our thoughts are with the divers, their families and friends and we pray for their safe return.

Operations are continuing.

Swahili Divers (P) Ltd, Padi resort no 32219
www.swahilidivers.com
Reservations: swahilidivers@zanlink.com
Personal: sahilreis@zanlink.com
Tel: +255 24 2452786 (Mornings and evenings best.)
Mobile: +255 748 39 49 80

Source: www.swahilidivers.com