Ferry MV Matui Sinks Off Vanuatu Coast; One Dead, Over 30 Missing
The ferry MV Matui sank off the coast of Vanuatu after departing from Santo Island for Ambae Island in rough seas. One person has died and more than 30 are missing, while search and rescue operations continue with international assistance.
A ferry carrying more than 40 passengers and crew has sunk off the coast of Vanuatu, resulting in one confirmed death and leaving over 30 people missing at sea. The vessel, identified as the MV Matui, departed from Santo Island on Friday with a destination of Ambae Island.
Authorities have reported that fifteen individuals onboard have been accounted for alive, and one body has been recovered. Search and rescue operations are ongoing under the coordination of the Vanuatu government, with significant assistance provided by New Caledonia's Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre. On Sunday morning, the Centre located twelve people and deployed a French Armed Forces aircraft to aid in the search efforts.
Prime Minister Jotham Napat’s office stated that an investigation into potential negligence has been launched. Authorities suspect that strong winds, unheeded marine warnings, and possible overloading contributed to the sinking. The incident highlights the dangers faced by inter-island transport in the region during adverse weather conditions.