Hany Nabil Mustapha
POLICE have appealed for the public's help to find a sailor missing since yesterday (Saturday) morning.
Despite a search of the waters and shore around the Isle of Wight and the south coast, Hany Nabil Mustapha has not been seen since 10.05am when he set sail from Poole Yacht Club, telling staff he was heading to Hayling Island.
He had bought the boat, Brigand, that morning. Hours later it was found washed ashore on the beach at Grange Chine, Brighstone, with the engine running and one of its sails up, but no-one aboard.
A search operation involving two Coastguard helicopters, Freshwater's independent lifeboats, Yarmouth RNLI and onshore coastguard rescue teams was launched.
The search was suspended at 11pm on Saturday and resumed at 7am this morning (Sunday). The search was called off at 3.40pm today.
Earlier today a coastguard rescue team spokesman said sea temperatures were about 10C.
Det Insp Pete Little said: "We are obviously concerned about Mr Mustapha and I am releasing an image of him in the hope the public may be able to assist us in locating him."
Mr Mustapha, 46, of Kingston, London, was described as about 6ft 3ins tall and stocky build. He was last seen wearing a white sailing jacket, sunglasses and a hat.
Mr Mustapha in the yacht as he left Poole bay on Saturday morning.