Brazilian Navy Intensifies Search for Missing Fishing Boat Off Maricá

Overview

• The Funelli, carrying six professional fishermen, lost contact after its last tracker signal near Ponta Negra on January 15.
• The crew departed Niterói on January 3 and was due back this week, with Wednesday marked as the expected return date.
• Search operations now deploy the patrol ship NPaOc Amazonas, replacing NPa Gurupi, alongside an FAB SC-105 Amazonas aircraft for expanded coverage.
• Salvamar Sueste issued maritime notices and a Search and Rescue alert via INMARSAT to enlist nearby vessels, and emergency reports are being taken at 185 or the 1st Naval District lines.
• An administrative inquiry has been opened to determine causes and responsibilities, as families—most from Maranhão with three relatives among the crew—await updates.