Police Scotland has identified an “area of interest” off the Port of Ness in the search for two missing Lewis fishermen and their vessel.
The area is to be targeted by a specialist police diving unit in the continuing efforts to trace Norman Murray, 40, who is known as Tam, and Murdo Morrison, 23, who remain unaccounted for. They are being treated as missing people.
They were part of a three-man crew aboard fishing boat Kilda operating in the vicinity of Port of Ness on Tuesday (13 October).
The body of Douglas Craigie (49) was recovered in the area around 2.45 am on Wednesday (14 October).
The area of interest has been revealed following the enforcement of a diving exclusion zone between the Butt of Lewis and Port of Ness.
Chief Inspector Ross McCartney, local area commander for the Western Isles, said: “Our thoughts remain with everyone affected by this tragic incident.
“We are carrying out extensive work with our partners to further investigate the specific area in as safe a manner as possible.
“We understand how distressing and difficult this time will be for the families, and we would ask that their privacy is respected.”
Chief Inspector McCartney added: “The exclusion zone remains in place for divers in the area where searches have been carried out. “However, vessels can still operate in this area.
“We know the local community are keen to help in any way they can. However, we 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.
“If you believe you may have any information which could assist emergency services, then please call 101 quoting reference 3575 of 13 October.
“Officers will remain in the Port of Ness area, and if you have any concerns or information, then I would urge you to speak to them.”
Meanwhile, Free Church of Scotland Moderator Rev. Calum Iain Macleod has expressed his sympathy to the families affected by the fishing boat tragedy.
In a statement issued yesterday (Sat, O17 October), he said: "The tragic events that unfolded off the Port of Ness over the past week have left many stunned. The indescribable sense of loss and profound anxiety felt by the families of the three local fishermen is unimaginable; we assure them of our ongoing prayers in the days ahead.
"Multi-agency rescue teams have been working tirelessly in very challenging circumstances. We remember in our prayers all those actively involved, including members of HM Coastguard, the RNLI, the police and other services.
"As an indigenous Hebridean brought up in the fishing community of Scalpay, I am aware of the deep pain felt by many islanders during these dark days. The communities of Carloway, Barvas and Ness have all been directly impacted by this tragedy. We remember them prayerfully.
"The local fishing community has also been greatly affected by this tragic incident, including both working and retired fishers. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the close-knit fishing community along the West Coast."
Image content - Police Scotland
