Search operations underway for Singaporean diver missing since Saturday

SINGAPORE ― A search-and-rescue operation is underway in the waters off Sentosa for Singaporean commercial diver Jake Seet, who has been declared missing since Saturday (May 5).

Family members of the 33-year-old said they had been given scant information about events leading to his disappearance. He was last known to be conducting underwater operations for the vessel Jork at the Western Anchorage near Sentosa.

"As of this point in time, we do not know what exactly had happened, how it happened, what steps and measures would be taken moving forward, and Jake's employer's protocol for handling such situations," said the diver's sister, Ms Jacqueline Seet Ai Chen. "We are extremely distressed by the limited information and answers made available to us."

The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) said it deployed two MPA and two Police Coast Guard craft to the scene for search-and-rescue operations after it was alerted to the incident around 2.40pm on Saturday.

"Dive boats and divers were also deployed by the commercial diving company to support the search. MPA has been issuing navigational broadcasts to alert nearby vessels of the incident," said an MPA spokesperson. "Search-and-dive operations are currently ongoing."

Mr Seet is married with two young sons, and his wife is pregnant with their third child, according to his sister. 

She added: "We need answers and information. We urge all parties to do their utmost to search for Jake as time obviously is the most critical factor. Please bring Jake home."