13 Days On, No Sign of Missing Fisherman John Mathias as Search Continues Amid Alleged Lapses

Thiruvananthapuram: The wait continues for the family and local community of fisherman John Mathias, who went missing at sea. More than 13 days have passed, but the government’s search and rescue mechanisms have failed to locate him. The search was initiated only after John’s family raised complaints. Although the search is continuing, relatives and local residents have also been conducting their own search, alleging that the official operation has not been effective. The Chief Minister visited the family only 11 days after John went missing.

Authorities said the search is being continued under the leadership of the Coast Guard, Coastal Police, Fisheries Department and Marine Enforcement. Coast Guard vessels are also involved in the operation. However, search operations have not yet begun in places including Rameswaram, despite the family’s request.

John Mathias’ boat capsized around 1.30 am on July 31, about 18 km from Vizhinjam, after it was caught in strong winds and waves while he was fishing. Manoj, Saju, Deepu and Shaji, who were with him, were rescued by people in other boats. John, however, could not be found.

Despite the authorities being informed, the rescue operation for John was significantly delayed. Officials initially said the Fisheries Department’s marine ambulance boat could not be used because it did not have fuel. Following mounting protests, fuel was arranged and the marine ambulance was deployed to sea. Although the accident occurred on Friday night, the location where the boat had capsized was identified only by the evening of the fourth day.

Even after so many days since the accident, senior officials have neither reached the site nor taken steps to coordinate the rescue operation, it is alleged. Officials are joining the search only nominally when repeated complaints are raised, the family and local residents allege.

John was the sole breadwinner of a family of five. His daughter Jiji, who became emotional while speaking about the negligence in finding her father, was subjected to a major cyberattack by Congress workers.

The aerial search operation is also not being conducted effectively. Searches carried out during strong winds and rain are unlikely to be effective. However, aerial searches are not being conducted even when weather conditions are favourable.