Deon Langenhoven, NSRI Hermanus deputy station commander, said:  "At 16h39, Sunday, 15th June, NSRI Hermanus  volunteer  sea  rescue  duty  crew  were activated  following reports of a man swept off rocks in front of the beach club, next to the Hermanus new harbour.

"Our NSRI Hermanus volunteer sea rescue duty crew, the SA Police Services and WC Government Health EMS responded.

"On arrival on-scene an extensive search commenced for a 68 year old Parow man missing in very rough sea conditions.

“The 68 year old missing man had reportedly been standing on rocks with a 43 year old friend, from Mitchell’s Plain. They were taking photographs when both men were swept off the rocks and into the surf by a wave. The 43 year old Mitchell’s Plain man had managed to get out of the water but he has confirmed that his friend disappeared beneath the surf almost immediately and he has not been seen since.

“Despite an extensive search no sign of the man has been found and Police will continue a search and Police have opened an investigation into the incident.

“Police have not released the name of the missing man while efforts are made to locate his family."