The search for two missing Lewis fishermen and their vessel has been temporarily paused after difficult sea conditions prevented specialist teams from investigating an area of interest off the north of the island.
Police Scotland confirmed on Sunday 18 October that attempts to deploy a remotely operated underwater vehicle near the Ness had been halted because of challenging sea conditions and difficulties securing the search vessel in position.
Norman Murray, 40, known as Tam, and Murdo Morrison, 23, remain missing following the disappearance of the fishing vessel Kilda on Tuesday 13 October.
Their fellow crew member, Douglas Craigie, was recovered from the sea at approximately 2.45am on Wednesday 14 October.
The latest development follows the identification of an area of interest off the coast of the Ness, which specialist officers and partner agencies had been preparing to examine.
Teams attempted to investigate the location on Sunday, but conditions at sea and problems with anchoring prevented the remotely operated vehicle from being deployed as planned.
The equipment is intended to assist underwater investigations in areas that can be difficult or dangerous for divers to access.
Police have not disclosed what prompted the identification of the area of interest or whether anything connected to the missing vessel has been located.
Officers have stressed that the interruption is temporary and that work will resume when conditions allow the operation to be carried out safely.
Chief Inspector Ross McCartney, local area commander for the Western Isles, said:
“We understand how distressing this must be for everyone affected by this tragic incident and our thoughts remain with them at this time.
“The families have asked for their privacy to be respected.
“I want to assure everyone that as soon as it is safe to do so, we will resume our efforts and do all we can to get answers for those affected.”
The fishing vessel Kilda was last known to have been operating close to Port of Ness on Tuesday, with the disappearance prompting an extensive search involving emergency services and maritime agencies.
Despite continuing efforts, Norman and Murdo remain unaccounted for and are being treated as missing people.
The Marine Accident Investigation Branch has established an exclusion zone for divers between the Butt of Lewis and Port of Ness, which remains in force while the investigation continues.
The restriction applies to diving activities, although other vessels are still permitted to operate within the area.
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.”
Police are particularly concerned that well intentioned members of the public could place themselves in danger by attempting searches in difficult coastal conditions.
Officers will continue to maintain a presence around Port of Ness while preparations are made to resume the specialist operation.
Anyone who believes they have information that could assist the investigation is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting reference 3575 of 13 October.
For the families and communities awaiting news, the search remains unfinished, with police committed to returning to the area of interest as soon as conditions make it safe.
