The search for a 58-year-old man from Lepea who went missing while fishing near Mulinuu on Saturday is expected to end Wednesday, pending a final assessment by authorities.

Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority Commissioner Tanuvasa Petone Mauga confirmed that his team, in collaboration with the Samoa Police Service, had completed extensive searches of the area guided by current and drift models.

“We’ve searched all possible areas based on current and drift patterns,” Tanuvasa said Tuesday. “After three days, if nothing new is found, we’ll review our operations and consider ending the active search.”

The man was last seen early Saturday morning. When he failed to return home, a coordinated search effort was launched Sunday, focusing on coastal zones influenced by prevailing currents. The operation resumed at 6 am Tuesday, with crews concentrating on the north coast, where the man was believed to have possibly drifted.

Authorities recovered the man’s fishing rod and bag but confirmed he had no boat, indicating he was fishing from the shoreline.

No new search zones were added on Tuesday, with teams reconfirming previous sweeps.

If the search is suspended, officials said they would continue to rely on the public to report any sightings or discoveries.

“We’ll open it up to the public,” Tanuvasa said. “If anyone sees anything, they should let us know.”

The missing man’s family and church community have shared emotional messages on social media, holding out hope for his return.

“Return home, my dear brother,” one post read. Another added, “Still hoping for a miracle.”

“Today’s the last day for your continued search, and we’re still praying for a miracle,” another message wrote.