The search for two fishermen who went missing off the north coast of the Isle of Lewis has resumed after being temporarily called off. Norman “Tam” Murray, 40, and Murdo Morrison, 23, remain missing after they and their vessel, the Kilda, disappeared on October 13.
The body of crewmate Douglas Craigie, 49, was recovered from the sea at around 2.45am on October 14, but the other two men and the boat remain unaccounted for.
Search Operation Resumes
The search was temporarily halted due to sea conditions and anchoring challenges, but resumed on Wednesday morning, Police Scotland said. The force’s Marine and Dive Unit and other partners are carrying out inquiries at an area of interest near the Port of Ness, close to where the trio went missing.
Inspector Neil Taylor, local area Inspector for the Western Isles, said: “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragic incident. We understand how distressing this must be for all involved and I want to assure everyone that we are doing everything we can to get answers for those affected.”
Appeal for Information
Taylor added: “This is a complex operation and we would ask that officers and specialists are given the time and space to carry out their enquiries. The families continue to ask for their privacy to be respected.”
He also urged the public not to put themselves at risk: “We know the local community are keen to help in any way they can. However, we urge people not to put themselves at any risk. Please do not attempt to carry out searches in areas which put you at risk of harm. If you believe you may have any information which could assist emergency services then please call 101 quoting reference 3575 of 13 October.”
Exclusion Zone and Fundraiser
A Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB) exclusion zone is in place for divers and vessels in an area between the Butt of Lewis and Port of Ness. Officers remain in the Port of Ness area, and Taylor urged anyone with concerns or information to speak to them.
A GoFundMe for the families affected by the event has raised almost £65,000, against a target of £110,000.
