Kamata Chinhama regretted that the shipowner and family members reported the vessel missing just four days after the incident, and said that the search continues, involving several entities.
According to the official, an alert was made to sailors to collaborate in search and rescue actions, which involve the artisanal fishing association, navy, fisheries and border guard police.
The captain of the Captaincy of Lobito stressed that the vessel disappeared in an area prohibited for artisanal vessels, violating the notice that expressly prohibits navigation, from the Fundão area, in Tômbua, Ponte Albina, Baía dos Tigres to Ilha dos Tigres, dangerous areas for fishing, due to waves that reach up to two and a half meters in height and speeds of up to 35 kilometers per hour.
This official said that a case was opened against the shipowner, which has already been heard in a statement, "as there are very strong indicators that there was negligence on his part".
Kamata Chinhama stressed that maritime authorities have been disseminating information about maritime standards, with awareness-raising actions, through campaigns on beaches, training, forums, and a colloquium is being prepared.
The officer said that this is the first case this year of a fishing vessel disappearing, which the Port Authority of Namibe has recorded.
