A fisherman named Ben Dowie, 28, is currently missing after his creel boat was found stranded with the engine running on Inverbervie Beach, Aberdeenshire. Ben, who usually fishes for lobster in Arbroath using his vessel Sea Eagle AH18, has not been seen since December 20. The unmanned boat triggered a large-scale search operation involving Police Scotland and multiple aircraft, including a search helicopter.
Various rescue teams from Montrose, Stonehaven, Arbroath, and Aberdeen, along with RNLI teams from Arbroath, Montrose, and Stonehaven, as well as local fishing boats, joined the search effort. Despite extensive physical searches, the search has now entered its ninth day, and Ben remains missing, with Police Scotland keeping the missing persons case open.
Local community members have paid tribute to Ben, describing him as a kind individual. Messages of condolence and hope for his safe return have flooded social media platforms. The Arbroath RNLI expressed condolences and support for Ben’s family, friends, and the local fishing community during this challenging time.
According to a statement from Police Scotland, the search for Ben began on December 20 when his boat was discovered on Inverbervie Beach. Despite extensive search efforts in surrounding areas, Ben has not been located, and investigations are ongoing.