Moçâmedes — The Namibe Port Authority rescued five sailors alive, the port captain, Kamatá Chinhama, announced on Tuesday.

The sailors were using a traditional boat that had been missing at sea for more than five days, in the municipality of Tômbwa.

In a press conference, the official explained that the vessel "Avô Kalunjinji", with six crew members on board, had set sail in the early morning of May 5, 2026, from the bay of Tômbwa, from the usual unloading point known as "17 de Setembro", bound for the vicinity of Rocha Magalhães, for fishing activities.

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Kamatá Chinhama stated that, during the search and rescue operations, five of the six sailors were located and are safe with their families. He announced that one of the crew members remains missing, and maritime authorities are intensifying the search along the coast. According to the captain, one of the vessels involved in the rescue operations suffered a breakdown during the mission, which temporarily hampered the search efforts.

He emphasized that operations are continuing, with the support of vessels operating in the area and local fishermen.

The Port Authority of Namibe reiterated its appeal for strict compliance with maritime safety regulations by navigators, shipowners, and masters of industrial, semi-industrial, and artisanal vessels.

It requested cooperation with the authorities in case of sightings or relevant information that may help in the rescue of the other sailor.

It reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding human life at sea and strengthening maritime surveillance and assistance actions on the coast of Namibe province.