POLICE and villagers are searching for three missing people outside Seghe in Marovo lagoon, Western Province, after their boat capsizedwith eight people on board on 31 December 2018.
The Out Boat Motor (OBM) engine travelled from Noro to Seghe with eight people on board during the bad weather experienced across the country.
Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Western Province, Chief Superintendent Mathias Lenialau says the boat capsized when they met up with rough sea just outside of Seghe.
“Four of them swam ashore, one confirmed dead and three still missing,” Mr Lenialau said.
“Among the survivors are two females,” he added.
“On behalf of the police, I wish to extend our condolences and sympathy to the family and relatives of men and may his soul rest in peace with the good lord.”
He reminded boat owners and travelers to plan their trip properly.
Safety points to remember before travelling:
· Plan your trip and let at least a member of your family know where you are going and what time you expect to arrive;
· Check the weather on Solomon Island Broadcasting Cooperation (SIBC) or call the Met Service on 23658 or toll free 933;
· If you start your trip and the weather becomes bad, seek shelter until the sea is calm;
· Make sure your boat is seaworthy and your OBM is serviced and maintained;
· Know your skipper. Make sure they are experienced in driving boats;
· Do not overload your boat
· Wear life jackets. Take food and water, paddles, first aid kit, anchor and rope, mirror to signal others, tools, bucket, torch, phone, flares and EPIRB;
· Take extra fuel;
· If your skipper is drunk, do not go with them or let them control the boat; and
· If you require help at sea call the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) on phone 21609 or 27685 or the toll free phone 977; or call the Royal Solomon Island Police Force (RSIPF) National Communication Centre on phone 23666 or the toll free phone 999.
