Police confirm missing boat with four people missing since 29 May 2018 at sea between Mary Island and Russell Islands has been found, at Gatokae Island in Western Province.
Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) at Yandina Police Station received the report on 30 May 2018 and same day conducted the search.
It is reported, prior to the alleged incident the missing boat was travelling with another boat after a fishing trip at sea around Mary Island, further of West Russell Islands, in the Central Province.
It is further alleged when the two boats travelling back, for Russell Islands the boat lose sight of the another boat as the sea started to get rough. The boat allegedly run out of fuel and drifted at sea and was lucky to get ashore at Gatokae Island in Western Province; while the other boat safely arrived ashore and reported the matter to Yandina police for assistance.
Central Province Supervising Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Inspector Hugo Maelasi says, “I can confirm the four missing people (not five as previously reported) arrived safely by boat to Gatokae Island in Western Province today, 01 June 2018. Arrangement has been made for the transportation of the men back to Russell Islands.”
“I would like to thank Constable Davis Hae and team who have tried their best yesterday (31 May) to look out for the missing people as far as Mary Island surrounding sea where the boat was alleged to be last seen; and around parts of West Russell Islands. Police involvement in the search shows they have concern for people’s safety in communities,” says Supervising PPC Maelasi.
“I can confirm the RSIPF is making arrangement for the safe return of the found men back to Russell Islands,” says Supervising Assistant Commissioner (AC) for National Operations Stanley Riolo, who is also responsible for Police Maritime.
“I appeal to travelling boats across the country to take extra safety measures when intending to travel out at sea. It is important to plan before going out to sea,” says Supervising AC Riolo.
Important points to consider:
• Check for weather
• Make sure your boat is 100% operational
• Your skipper must well verse with out-board motor (OBM) engines and experience.
• Monitor your loading
• Ensure safety equipment’s must be on board.
• Take enough fuel to sustain your operation.
• If you are in doubt of your skipper don’t go.
• If you encounter a problem at sea and require help call MRCC or RSIPF.
MRCC and RSIPF will be operating 24/7 and can be contacted on phones 21609 or 27685 or Toll free 977, Police 23666 or Toll Free 999.