A Thai fisherman has been plucked from the sea by personnel on board the Navy Frigate HMNZS TE MANA.

Ismail bin Adam is pulled on to the rescue boat.

Ismail bin Adam celebrates his rescue between Petty Officer Medic Andrew Findley-Clarke (L) and Petty Officer SCS Toby Mills (R) who first saw the Thai man in the water.

The rescue happened yesterday (Tuesday 12 April) while TE MANA was conducting naval operations in the South China Sea.

The man, 22 year old Ismail bin Adam had been floating naked in the water for six hours before he was spotted by Petty Officer Toby Mills.

After being recovered from the water by TE MANA’s sea-boat, Ismail bin Adam was examined by the Navy medic onboard, and showed no visible signs of distress.

He remained on board while TE MANA diverted towards Kuantan, 65 miles to the west of where the ship is operating. He was then transferred to a Malaysian Naval vessel.

Commanding Officer of HMNZS TE MANA, Commander Lance Cook, RNZN says the real time rescue was a great achievement.

"The crew of TE MANA reacted swiftly and professionally, and we are pleased to have been able to assist in such a rescue; taking time out from our operational activities to save a life is a real success, " he said.

ENDS

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