A 40-horse powered ray boat carrying five persons, including one female, tragically sunk last Friday morning enroute to Gizo.
The boat started its journey from Simbo and encountered distressing circumstances.
According reports, two of the five persons managed to swim to Kongu village on Rannogah, where they urgently sought help for the other three.
The villagers promptly rallied a rescue mission and were able to locate the other three passengers who were floating in the open sea and took them to safety.
Despite the rescue of all five persons, the incident resulted in the loss of the 40-horse engine and boat. The boat and engine were not recovered.
Speaking to Solomon Star, one of the prominent leaders in Gizo said the loss of the boat and engine is a vital asset loss for any rural community and the incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks that individuals often face when travelling at sea to ensure their livelihood.
The leader said the incident should also serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the sea and the importance of people to always adhere to safety measures whilst at sea.
Solomon Star understands this is the fourth unfortunate boat incident to have happened in the Western Province, particularly in the waters between Gizo, Kolombangara, Vella and the Shortland Islands.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
