A fisherman is suspected to have drowned while 16 others were rescued, by the Jamaica Defence Force Coast Guard today.

In a statement, the JDF said at about mid day, coast guards spotted a vessel on fire, just south of Portland Point, off the coast of Clarendon.

The soldiers responded and extinguished the fire.

They also searched the area and found 16 persons on 3 small canoes.

The rescued persons were taken onboard the offshore patrol vessel, where they were hydrated and taken to mainland for medical attention.

Reports suggest that at least one crew member drowned, as he was not found.

The crew consisted of 9 Dominicans and 8 Jamaicans.

They had earlier left Harbour View for the Pedro Banks.

The JDF is urging mariners on the south coast to remain vigilant for any signs of the missing fisherman and report any sightings immediately to the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre.