Search-and-rescue crews in Vanuatu have shifted their operation toward the country’s southeastern coastline after a passenger ferry sank between the islands of Ambae and Santo, leaving more than 30 people missing and at least one dead.
The MV Matui was carrying 47 people when it went down on Friday, according to The Associated Press. Fifteen survivors have been rescued and one body recovered, but the search for the rest continues.
Vanuatu’s Ministry of the Prime Minister said in a Facebook statement that authorities are scaling back the search in open water and moving toward the coastline, where currents may have carried survivors. The shift was attributed to Matai Seremaiah, the Parliament member for Luganville.
“Our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones. To the survivors, we pray for your strength and recovery. To the families of those missing and those we have lost, please know that the nation stands with you in this time of grief.”
Retired Coast Guard Capt. Aaron Davenport, based in Virginia, told Fox News Digital that water temperature, injuries and access to flotation equipment all factor into how long a person can survive once in the water.
“They may be clinging to debris. But as the days go on, the chances of survival are less and less,” Davenport said, noting that lack of food and water and the risk of hypothermia further diminish survival odds.
Warnings Reportedly Ignored
The ministry said the tragedy likely stemmed from ignored marine warnings about strong winds, along with the possibility the vessel was overloaded.
“This tragedy is a reminder that the safety of life at sea must come first. Ship owners must ensure their vessels are seaworthy, carry all required safety equipment and have proper communication systems on board. Ignoring strong marine warnings puts lives at risk.”
The government has launched a full investigation into the sinking, saying it intends to establish the facts and prevent similar disasters.
A Second Ferry Disaster
The Vanuatu sinking follows another fatal ferry disaster on Aug. 30, when the Filo Jet catamaran, carrying 267 people, capsized off northern Cyprus. Fourteen people died and another 14 remain missing, while 239 people were brought ashore alive. The ferry began taking on water shortly after leaving port, and authorities are still investigating what caused it to sink.
