Urgent Search for Missing Man in Sea Tragedy continues
By Alfred Pagepitu
Tulagi Police are actively searching for a 54-year-old man who went missing at sea earlier this week after a boat capsized between Guadalcanal and the Central Islands Province.
The missing man traveled with a 25-year-old man when their boat encountered rough seas on Monday.
While the 25 year old managed to swim to safety at Savo Island, the 54 year old is still missing.
Inspector George Mouli, Supervising Provincial Police Commander for Central Province, confirmed the incident to SIBC News.
“Tulagi Police launched a search and rescue operation on Monday after the boat capsized. They were en route from Honiara to Leitongo when the rough conditions struck.”
The 25 year old floated on a container for over 24 hours before reaching shore around 8 PM local time on Tuesday, where he was rescued by residents of Kuila Village.
He reported that the missing man was last seen clinging to debris from the boat.
As of now, search efforts are ongoing, with local authorities mobilizing resources to locate the missing man.
Inspector Mouli has called on the community for assistance, stating, “We urge everyone to help us in the search for the missing man, as time is of the essence.”
In light of this incident, Inspector Mouli issued essential safety advisory for those planning to travel by sea to;
– Inform a family member about your travel plans and expected return time.
– Check weather conditions via SIBC or contact the Met Service at toll-free 933 or phone numbers 36310 and 24219.
– If conditions worsen, seek shelter until it’s safe to continue.
– Ensure your boat is seaworthy and your outboard motor is well-maintained.
– Verify your skipper’s experience and avoid overloading the boat.
– Wear life jackets and carry essential supplies, including food, water, first aid kits, signaling mirrors, and extra fuel.
– Do not allow a drunken skipper to control the boat.
For those in distress at sea, contact the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) at 21609, 27685, or toll-free 977, or reach the RSIPF National Communication Centre at 23666 or toll-free 999.
Safety at sea starts with you: If you’re unsure—stay ashore.
ENDS///