Specialist boat called in to help with search for missing fishermen

A specialist boat will be used to continue searches for two missing men and a fishing vessel off the coast of Lewis.

The boat, last known to be operating near the Port of Ness, failed to make port on October 13, prompting a major search for the vessel and its three crewmen.

Norman Murray, 40, who is known as Tam, and Murdo Morrison, 23, remain unaccounted for and are being treated as missing people.

The body of Douglas Craigie, who was also part of the crew, was recovered in the area around 2.45am on October 14.

The area that police are focusing on during search efforts Police Scotland

Items from the missing fishing boat Kilda were recovered last week by specialist police divers during searches within an area of interest off the coast of the Port of Ness.

Two weeks on, police have now confirmed the Northern Lighthouse Board vessel NLV Pharos will be deployed to the area from Friday as part of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch’s investigation.

The ship operates from a base in Oban and is responsible for the operation of lighthouses in Scotland.

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

“We will continue to work with partners, including the MAIB, Maritime and Coastguard Agency and local maritime experts, and are extremely grateful for partners’ resources, which are dedicated to this operation.

“It is imperative we get answers for everyone involved, and please be assured our efforts are continuing.

“We would 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.

“The families 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.”

The MAIB have been contacted for comment.