UK confirms suspension of Cheeki Rafiki search
The US Coast Guard has confirmed that the search for the crew of the ‘Cheeki Rafiki’ yacht, which disappeared on 16 May, has now been suspended.
Despite an extensive search operation co-ordinated by the US Coast Guard, which involved planes from the US, Canada and the UK, as well as US Navy and Coastguard ships, and merchant vessels, the missing sailors have not been located. The US Coast Guard has now made the exceptionally difficult decision to conclude operations.
Foreign Office Minister for North America, Hugh Robertson, said:
I am sad to confirm that the search for the ‘Cheeki Rafiki’ has now been suspended. My sincere condolences go out to the families of James Male, Andrew Bridge, Steve Warren and Paul Goslin at this very difficult and distressing time.
The UK government is grateful to the US Coastguard and the Canadian search and rescue services for their efforts to locate the men. Their dedication has been unwavering, and they have done everything they could during the course of the search.
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