Searches complete with nothing found at two sites in search for missing fisherman off the Isle of Lewis

The examination of two areas of interest in the search for two missing men and a fishing boat off the Isle of Lewis has been completed, with nothing found.

A search of two sites identified as areas of interest, East of the Butt of Lewis, was completed by Wednesday, Police Scotland said.

The areas were thoroughly examined as part of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch’s investigation, using specialist equipment provided by MOWI.

The MAIB confirmed that there was no trace of the men or the vessel, and the maritime exclusion zone in the area has now been lifted as a preliminary assessment of the loss of Kilda continues.

Kilda was last known to be operating with three men on board near the Port of Ness in northern Lewis on October 13.

The body of 49-year-old Douglas Craigie was recovered in the area a few hours after the alarm was raised.

Murdo Morrison, 23, and Norman “Tam” Murray, 40, remain unaccounted for and are being treated as missing people. The vessel itself is also still missing.

Inspector Neil Taylor said: “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragic incident.

“We continue to work with partners, including the MAIB, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and local maritime experts to locate the Kilda and the two missing men.

“We are grateful for the support of all of our partners, including the NLV Pharos and staff from MOWI for their assistance with the search.”

The families of all of the men continue to ask for their privacy to be respected.

If you have any concerns, or information, please call 101 quoting reference 3575 of October 13.