Police search for missing baby, presumed dead at sea in Choiseul Province
Police in Taro are conducting a search for a missing baby of about 3- 4 months old at sea around Pachuava coastline of North West Choiseul, Choiseul Province on 13 January 2022.
The baby was washed away by strong waves according to Police.
Officers of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at Taro and Police Response Team (PRT) deployment team base in Taro are conducting the search.
“The missing child was carried by her mother on board a boat powered by a 40 horse powered engine that departed Taro station and headed back home on 12 January 2022,” a Police statement said.
“On their way home, at sea the boat caught up with a strong wind, dark clouds, rain, and high waves. As a result, the boat sank. Three passengers and the driver managed to swim ashore that evening,” Supervising Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Choiseul Province, Inspector Elliot Ngili said.
Inspector Ngili said the mother was holding up her child trying her best to save her baby but was unfortunately washed away by strong waves at the end of a reef.
“My condolence to the family who tragically lost their child in this incident.”
Taro Police, relatives and the public around that area are still conducting a search for the missing child.
“Taro Police is continuing with an inquiry into the incident. I call all boat owners and travelling passengers to plan a safe trip. If anyone has any information regarding the incident to assist police with the investigation,” said PPC Ngili.