**Continued Search Efforts for Missing Fishermen Near Isle of Lewis Yield No Results**
As the search for two missing fishermen off the coast of the Isle of Lewis continues, authorities have reported that nothing was discovered during the latest operation. The search, conducted by specialist teams, focused on two underwater sites located east of the Butt of Lewis, which had been identified by the Northern Lighthouse Board vessel NLV Pharos.
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Despite the thorough investigation employing advanced equipment provided by MOWI and the expertise of the Marine Accident Investigation Branch (MAIB), the search yielded no leads pertaining to the missing fishing vessel FV Kilda or its crew. Efforts to locate the boat—which was last reported operating near the Port of Ness on 13 October—have now been paused, lifting a maritime exclusion zone previously established in the area.
The FV Kilda’s crew members, 40-year-old Norman ‘Tam’ Murray and 23-year-old Murdo Morrison, remain unaccounted for, while the body of their colleague, 49-year-old Douglas Craigie, was recovered from the water early on 14 October. The ongoing absence of the two men has left their families and the local community in a state of distress. Inspector Neil Taylor of Police Scotland expressed his condolences, stating, “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragic incident,” and reaffirmed their commitment to collaborating with various maritime organisations to locate the missing men.
The fallout from this tragedy has deeply affected the local fishing community, prompting the Western Isles Fishermen’s Association to initiate a fundraising campaign. The appeal, which has successfully raised over £250,000, seeks to support the families affected, particularly those with young children. Community leaders have described the incident as “one of the worst sea tragedies in the Isle of Lewis for a generation”.
Efforts to recover additional items from the FV Kilda have been complicated by challenging sea conditions, prompting search operations to be temporarily halted. Police Scotland urges anyone with information regarding the incident to reach out.
The resilience and support of the local community is commendable amidst this dire situation, as they rally together to assist the families impacted by this heart-wrenching event.