Talhado confirms squid fishing vessel fire, cooperation with SAMSA
Crew members of the squid fishing vessel Silver Dorado were safely evacuated after the ship caught fire while deep at sea off the coast of Gqeberha on Monday evening.
Image: Supplied
Following a fire aboard the squid fishing vessel FV Silver Dorado, Talhado confirmed it was working closely with the South African Maritime Safety Authority in its investigation into the incident.
"Talhado confirms that one of its vessels, the Silver Dorado, a squid fishing vessel, was involved in an incident at sea during the early evening of 12 January 2025, when a fire broke out while the vessel was operating offshore from Gqeberha," the company said in a statement.
"From the moment Talhado became aware of the incident, the company activated its emergency response protocols and focused its full attention on the safety, wellbeing and welfare of the skipper and crew. All crew members, under the command of skipper Shaun Geswindt, were safely evacuated and rescued through the swift, professional and highly coordinated response of the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI). Talhado extends its sincere gratitude to the NSRI and the following vessels: Maverick (one of our own vessels), Raka, Vulcan and Ligugu for their decisive and life-saving actions," Talhado said.
No injuries were reported.
"The safety, dignity and well-being of our crew remain Talhado’s highest priority," the company said.
All crew members, under the command of skipper Shaun Geswindt, were rescued following a "swift, professional and highly coordinated response" by the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).
The company confirmed that all crew are now safely ashore and have been provided with immediate support, including accommodation, clothing, and meals. Professional counselling has also been made available.
"Talhado continues to engage closely with the fishermen and their families and remains fully committed to supporting them in every possible way during this period," the statement read.
The South African Maritime Safety Authority (SAMSA) has been formally notified and has initiated an investigation into the cause of the blaze.
Talhado confirms the safe evacuation of crew members from the FV Silver Dorado following a fire incident, as they work closely with the South African Maritime Safety Authority to investigate the cause.
Image: Supplied
Talhado stated it is "working closely and transparently with SAMSA and all relevant authorities" and will cooperate fully.
The company has deferred all questions on the cause of the fire to the official investigation, stating it would be "premature and inappropriate to speculate" until it is concluded.
Arrangements are being made to return the crew members to their homes once necessary regulatory and insurance processes are finalised.
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