Rescue efforts continue as divers recover survivors and bodies from the doomed tourist vessel.
Diver Recalls Challenging Rescue from Egypt Boat Tragedy
Diver Recalls Challenging Rescue from Egypt Boat Tragedy
Dramatic submerged rescue operation highlights urgent search for missing tourists.
An Egyptian diver involved in the rescue of survivors from a sunken tourist boat in the Red Sea has recounted the perilous task faced by rescuers in low visibility conditions. Khattab al-Faramawy spoke to the BBC, revealing that the dive took place 12 meters (40 feet) underwater, where many passengers were trapped within the boat's cabins.
The incident occurred on Monday when the Sea Story, carrying 44 passengers and crew members, capsized after being struck by a large wave near Marsa Alam. On Tuesday, rescuers discovered four bodies and managed to save five survivors. While authorities have not yet released the victims' identities, reports indicate that two of the missing persons may be British citizens.
In a heartfelt message, Mr. al-Faramawy described the operation's complexity, stating, "We had to enter the boat and open the cabin doors to rescue passengers." He added that torch lights were essential for navigating through the dark, making the mission even more challenging. Expressing empathy for the victims' families, he hoped for the safe recovery of all missing individuals.
Among those saved was Mr. al-Faramawy's 23-year-old nephew Youssef, a diving instructor who had attempted to rescue passengers but ended up trapped in a cabin. Youssef's father, Hussam al-Faramawy, shared his overwhelming relief upon learning of his son's survival, having initially withheld the news from his wife to spare her distress.
The rescue operation is being coordinated by the Egyptian navy, with military authorities shielding survivors from media scrutiny. Footage shared by local officials revealed survivors emerging from the water, some wrapped in blankets and receiving immediate medical attention.
The Sea Story set sail on a five-day diving excursion over the weekend and was reportedly caught off guard by unfavorable weather conditions. The Red Sea authorities had issued warnings of high waves prior to the incident, which took place within a mere five to seven-minute timeframe, according to Maj-Gen Amr Hanafi.
Official statements emphasized the boat's compliance with safety regulations, and local officials communicated that tourists from various countries, including the UK, Belgium, China, and Poland, were aboard during the tragedy. Support is being extended to affected families, notably by the UK Foreign Office and the Chinese embassy, ensuring that rescued nationals are in good health.
