KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Maritime Air and Cyber Command (MACC) of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) announced that nine fishermen were rescued on the Morant Cays following a search and rescue operation on Friday.

According to a release from the JDF over the weekend, initial reports indicated that 11 fishermen were missing, but subsequent reports confirmed the number to be nine.

The fishermen reportedly departed the Cow Bay area in St Andrew for Morant Cays in three canoe-type vessels on Saturday, June 29, and were expected to return on Tuesday, July 2. When they failed to return and efforts to reach them proved futile, the JDF was contacted to initiate search and rescue operations.

The JDF stated that the fishermen were found trapped on Morant Cays after deteriorating sea conditions due to the passage of Hurricane Beryl made it difficult for them to sail. They were escorted to shore by service members from the JDF Coast Guard, where they were reunited with their families.

The JDF has advised seafarers that overdue vessels and vessels in distress can be reported to the MACC at (876) 926-8121 (extension 4004-6) or (876) 836-1216.

The JDF reiterated its commitment to “utilising its assets and operational capabilities to preserve lives and ensure the safety and security of all our citizens.”