The SA National Defence Force (SANDF) has identified the three SA Navy submariners who tragically died in a sea incident off Kommetjie yesterday afternoon.
The three officers, Lieutenant Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector, Master Warrant Officer William Masela Mathipa (Coxswain) and Warrant Officer Class One Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela (Coxswain under training), “washed from a SA Navy vessel” into the ocean near Slangkop Lighthouse around 15:00.
The National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI), in Kommetjie, responded to a call from SA Navy personnel. However, attempts to save their lives failed.
According to NSRI Kommetjie station commander Dave Smith, despite extensive CPR efforts, a woman officer and two men were declared deceased.
In a statement today (21 September), the SANDF confirmed the identities of the three officers.
“It is with deep sadness that the SANDF announces the tragic loss of three SA Navy submariners off Kommetjie on 20 September on board the SAS MANTHATISI.
“The families of the deceased members have been notified and military chaplains and social workers are offering support to the family.”
The families of the victims have requested privacy during this difficult time.
