A Kenyan captain rescued three Tanzanian nationals after their vessel capsized in the Indian Ocean, leaving them stranded for three days.
A statement by the Directorate of Criminal Investigation (DCI) on Wednesday, January 18, indicated that the three foreigners survived without food or water for three days after their canoe capsized due to a heavy storm.
The three embarked on a fishing expedition on Saturday, January 14, using a non-motorised canoe.
"But mid-through their voyage, their canoe came under a torrential storm accompanied by strong tidal waves that swept it off, tossing the fishermen into the raging waters," DCI's statement read in part.
"Miraculously, the trio fought through the storm and strong winds spawned by a surge of the northeast monsoon and managed to get hold of the vessel, which they floated on the water once again and hopped aboard," it added.
To avoid being attacked by sea creatures, the three Tanzanian nationals remained calm on the canoe as they had lost control of their paddles.
However, Tanzanian nationals were rescued after a Kenyan captain noticed them from afar and informed the Kenya Ports Authority (KPA).
The cargo ship rescued them following instructions from KPA's control tower on Monday, January 16.
"Luckily on Monday evening, the captain of a bulk ship MV Ince Atlantic spotted the canoe with stranded occupants within the Kenyan territorial waters.
The Captain reported to the Kenya Ports Authority control tower and was advised to assist the three and disembark them in Mombasa," DCI's statement stated.
Following the rescue mission, the Tanzanian consular was notified after it was established that the three fishermen were from Tangani in Pemba.
"Plans are currently underway to ensure that they are repatriated back home and reunited with their families," DCI indicated.
The accident came just days after the Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) directed that only licensed seafarers, tourist vessels and fishing boats will be allowed in Kenyan waters.
Speaking at the Malindi Marine Park, KMA Coast Regional Manager Alex Minga insisted that those seeking to operate on Kenyan waters should have their vessels inspected and certified.
Munga maintained that any stray vessel captured in the country would be held accountable.
