The MV Matui ferry sank while traveling between Santo and Ambae islands off the coast of Vanuatu, according to the country’s government. The vessel departed on Friday with more than 40 passengers and crew members aboard but failed to reach its intended destination due to very rough sea conditions.
Authorities confirmed that one person has died and more than 30 remain missing. Fifteen individuals have been rescued alive, and one body has been recovered from the water. Search and rescue operations are underway, with the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in New Caledonia providing assistance and a French Armed Forces aircraft deployed to aid in the effort. A total of 12 people were located on Sunday morning.
Vanuatu’s prime minister issued a statement expressing sympathy for the families affected by the incident. The government has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the sinking, suggesting that strong winds and unheeded marine warnings may have contributed to the disaster. Officials also indicated that negligence, potentially including vessel overloading, could have played a role in the incident.
Parliament member Matai Seremaiah, who is assisting with search efforts, indicated that rescue teams would focus their attention on the south-east coast, where ocean currents may have carried survivors.
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