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Ash Dykes missing for over 16 hours in Congo Basin expedition
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TikTok adventurer Ash Dykes has not been heard from in over 16 hours as he attempts one of the most dangerous expeditions ever.
The British explorer is currently attempting to travel through the Congo Basin, and now his team are seriously concerned about his whereabouts.
Ash Dykes is making one of the world's most dangerous journeys
Ash Dykes has been making the dangerous journey through the Congo Basin
In an update on social media, Ash’s team raised their concerns, stating: "It’s been more than 16 hours since we last heard from Ash and the team which is concerning,
"We will endeavour to keep you posted and let you all know as soon as we hear more. Thank you.”
Naturally, there are a number of things that could cause this lack of communication - it’s a wild place and there could be a few things at play.
But, of course, this is worrying news given the dangers of the area.
As well as wildlife such as hippos and crocodiles, it is a politically turbulent region, and the river itself is very dangerous.
The fact that they haven’t been able to contact him in almost a day is worrying, but not necessarily indicative of anything seriously wrong.
Dykes has been attempting one of the world’s most dangerous journeys
The team has not yet given any further information, but last we heard everything was continuing as normal.
Dykes has been attempting a 434-mile trip down the Sangha river in the Congo basin since setting out in his inflatable kayak on October 8.
Accompanied by only a local guide and a videographer, Dykes was clearly aware of the dangers before he set off, and some had even warned that the mission was too dangerous and should not be attempted at all.
Communication has been lost - but it was always going to be tough
As well as human and animal threats, as well as the dangers of the environment itself, there are also tropical diseases and other problems in the area.
So far, Dykes has already been stung by an insect, which caused him a lot of pain.
His team had already confirmed that communication would be difficult at times, with satellite service patchy throughout the area.
His team have promised that there will be further information given if and when contact has been established.
In the latest statement, it is not clear where Ash is, and no update has been given.