Cape Town – The body of 38-year-old kite surfer Graham Howes was recovered at sea on Monday, bringing a tragic end to an extensive search that involved multiple agencies, emergency services, and private and commercial resources.
NSRI Melkbosstrand confirmed that Howes, from Bloubergstrand, was last seen kite-boarding off Eden on the Bay at around 13:00 on Sunday, 7 September, wearing a black wetsuit, on a blue-and-black kiteboard with a white sail marked in red.
According to the NSRI media statement, “At 19h59, Sunday, NSRI Melkbosstrand duty crew were activated following reports from family that Graham had not returned from an afternoon kite-boarding session offshore of Eden on the Bay, Bloubergstrand.”
The search operation, which extended northwest of Bloubergstrand towards Dassen Island, involved NSRI rescue crafts from Melkbosstrand, Table Bay, and Yzerfontein, quad-bike shoreline searches, aerial infrared scans by a WC Government Health EMS Metro Rescue drone unit, and support from the South African Police Service. The Coast Watchers, neighbourhood watch groups, and kite-boarding community also assisted.
During Monday morning, Howes’ kiteboard and sail were located at sea, and later the day, his body was recovered by the crew of a local motor yacht who had joined in the search.
NSRI spokesperson Craig Lambinon said, “Condolences are conveyed to family and friends of Graham Howes who was located and recovered at sea sadly deceased during ongoing search efforts on Monday.”
The body has been taken into the care of Police and Government Health Forensic Pathology Services.
Lambinon added, “The extensive efforts by all involved in this incredible effort that has helped the family with closure is commended.” The family has respectfully requested privacy during this difficult time.
Authorities continue to investigate all circumstances surrounding the incident, with the SA Police Service opening a formal investigation. NSRI urged maritime and coastal communities to remain vigilant and report any sightings of individuals in distress at sea.
The extensive search involved coordination with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre, Transnet National Ports Authority, Robben Island environmental officers, and the CoCT water rescue network.
A marine VHF radio alert was broadcast continuously during the operation.
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Picture: NSRI
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Confirmed by Betha Madhomu
