A rescue mission for a missing Scots oil rig worker who vanished 100 miles south-east of Aberdeen has been stood down.
Concerns were said to be raised for a 50-year-old employee onboard the Valaris 121 installation at around 9.20pm last night.
Rig owner Valaris issued a statement earlier today confirming the man's family had been informed after the rescue operation was stopped at around 7am. Further details surrounding the incident are not known at this time.
Two oil supply vessels, a Coastguard helicopter and Coastguard aeroplane had been supporting with the search efforts overnight.
A spokesperson for the company said: "Valaris regrets to confirm that yesterday (Sunday, January 22), at approximately 1900 GMT, a Valaris employee was reported missing from jackup VALARIS 121.
"The safety of all personnel is Valaris’ top priority, and the company’s emergency response procedures were activated immediately after the incident was reported.
"Searches from the air and sea involving aircraft from HM Maritime and Coastguard Agency, as well as vessels in the area, were conducted through the night. The operation was stood down around 0700hrs today."
The man's family are being supported by the company and a dedicated number has been setup for concerned relatives.
They added: "The missing employee’s family has been informed of the development, and the company is providing them with support.
"The remaining 53 personnel on board have all been accounted for. However, a dedicated phone line has been set-up for any other concerned relatives. The number to call is 01224 548 527.
"At the time of the incident being reported, the rig was under tow from its last operating location in the UK North Sea to the port of Dundee, UK. The company will be making no further comment at this time."
A Police Scotland spokesperson said: “Around 9.20pm on Sunday, 22 January, 2023, officers received a report of a 50-year-old man missing from an oil rig in the North Sea.
“Police are liaising with partner agencies to establish the full circumstances.”
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