CT man survives shark attack

2006-01-01 16:22

Johannesburg - A 49-year-old Strand man was bitten on Sunday by an "unidentified 1.5m shark", while diving for crayfish about 250m offshore of Soetwater, near Kommetjie, on Sunday, said the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI).

Spokesperson Craig Lambinon said the man was bitten on his little finger and was taken to hospital for stitches after he pulled his hand free and swam shore.

Lambinon said the Vodacom Netcare 911 Surf Rescue helicopter patrolled the area, but there were no signs of any danger in the area, even though nine sharks were spotted along the coast.

Clive Wakeford, president of Western Province Lifesaving, said visibility along the False Bay coastline was excellent.

"The shark spotters are on alert and ready to warn of any danger."

- SAPA