When he saw a fellow fisherman in difficulties in the water, Penal fisherman Hemraj Maharaj went to his assistance.
Unfortunately, Maharaj himself then disappeared under the water.
In a release yesterday, Fishermen and Friends of the Sea (FFOS) asked mariners to be on the lookout for the brave seaman who was swept away by currents on Tuesday while trying to save a fellow fisherman who was in difficulty near the Caroni River in the Gulf of Paria.
“Fishermen and Friends of the Sea (FFOS) are urging fishermen to always take precautions when going out on fishing expeditions, ensure that you can swim, always wear your life vests and be ready to flee from the murdering pirates who are roaming unencumbered.”
Also stating that the T&T Coast Guard continues to fail to protect fishermen, FFOS said they must do all that is possible to ensure their own safety.
When contacted yesterday, Dave Seeram, of the Felicity Charlieville Fishing Association, said he did not know the details about what occurred.
However, he said Maharaj was assisting with repairs to a new boat.
He said they were testing it on the water when the unfortunate incident occurred.
He described Maharaj, who has two young children, as a family-oriented and fun person who was helpful in the community. Seeram said Maharaj’s family went out in search of him yesterday and they have also reached out to the Hunters’ Search and Rescue Team for assistance.
When Guardian Media visited Maharaj’s home at Suchit Trace, Penal, his relatives declined to comment.
The FFOS is asking anyone with information to contact the Coast Guard at 634-1476/224-0324/800-0777, the TTPS Coastal and Riverine Unit at 773-9664 or the nearest police station.
