"A di worse experience I ever experience all of my life ...out a sea, breakdown and drifting," said Fitzroy Russell, one of two fishermen rescued off the St Elizabeth coast Friday by the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF).

Russell recounted their ordeal, which he said began after they observed a fuel leak from the boat's recently repaired engine on their way back from the Pedro Cays. The 35-gallon gas tank later emptied and the boat started to drift.    

The fishermen were rescued approximately 14 miles southwest of Black River on Friday, following a JDF-led search and rescue mission.

The men left the New Causeway Fishing Village on August 31 but did not return as planned and they were reported missing on September 4.

The JDF Maritime Air and Cyber Command launched an immediate search operation using both air and maritime resources.

Seafarers eventually spotted the drifting vessel, IT DWAYNE, and alerted the JDF Coast Guard, leading to the rescue.

"I feel joyful, I feel joyful," Russell said, recalling the relief he felt when the rescue team arrived.

The men were brought ashore and handed over to the Marine Police. 

The JDF has thanked the seafarers whose information helped in the recovery and reminded the public to report overdue vessels or distress situations to the Maritime Air and Operations Centre at (876) 926-8121 or via mobile at (876) 836-1216.

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