Search Suspended for Three Missing Fishermen as Families Continue to Hold Out Hope

The Antigua and Barbuda Defence Force (ABDF) Coast Guard has suspended its search for three fishermen who disappeared at sea more than a week ago, while relatives continue their desperate efforts to uncover any clue that could lead to their loved ones.

The search for Rowel Martin, Gregory Questelles and Cleofoster Jarvis was officially halted on Monday after days of extensive search operations following their disappearance during a fishing trip.

Although the active search has ended, the ABDF Coast Guard told ABS News that the operation could be resumed if significant new information becomes available.

The development has done little to dampen the determination of the men’s families, who say they remain hopeful that answers can still be found.

According to relatives, they received information on Monday night about a bucket discovered at Crawl Beach containing an identification card, mobile phones and articles of clothing believed to be connected to the missing fishermen. While the discovery has not been officially linked to the case, it has renewed the family’s resolve to continue searching for clues.

The families are now appealing to members of the public to remain alert, particularly along Antigua’s eastern coastline, and to report anything unusual that could assist investigators or provide new leads.

Martin, Questelles and Jarvis were last seen departing Point Wharf aboard the fishing vessel Lady Madesha two Thursdays ago. Their failure to return prompted a large-scale search by the Coast Guard, which covered significant sections of the surrounding waters but yielded no confirmed trace of the men or their vessel.

Despite the suspension of the official search, hope remains that new information could reignite rescue efforts. Authorities continue to urge anyone with information that may assist the investigation to contact the ABDF Coast Guard or the police immediately.