JDF Coast Guard Rescues 16 Fishermen After Vessel Bursts Into Flames – One Feared Dead

KINGSTON, Jamaica — Members of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) Coast Guard sprang into action earlier today, rescuing 16 fishermen from a burning vessel off the south coast of Jamaica in a dramatic maritime operation.

Reports are that just before midday, the HMJS Norman Manley spotted a vessel engulfed in flames approximately 14 nautical miles south of Portland Point, Clarendon.

The JDF said the Norman Manley was immediately rigged as a fireboat to tackle the blaze. At the same time, the crew launched a small rescue craft to search the area for survivors.

The team discovered 16 men clinging to three small canoes nearby. The rescued fishermen were brought aboard the patrol vessel, hydrated, and later transported to the mainland for medical attention.

Sadly, reports indicate that a 17th crew member is believed to have drowned during the ordeal.

According to the JDF, the crew had departed Harbour View, St Andrew, en route to the Pedro Banks when disaster struck. The group included nine Dominicans and eight Jamaicans.

Authorities are urging the public and mariners along the south coast to remain vigilant and to report any signs of missing persons or debris immediately to the Jamaica Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) at (876) 976-8193 or (876) 836-1216.

The JRCC Kingston operates 24 hours and coordinates all maritime and aeronautical search and rescue efforts across Jamaican waters.