A 75-HORSE-POWERED ray boat carrying Biometric Voter Registration (BVR) officers capsized at Lambulambu point between the North Vella Constituency and South Vella Constituency in the Western Province.
The tragic incident occurred last Friday evening just after the BVR officers completed their electoral registration task in the North Vella Constituency.
Unfavourable weather condition reportedly caused the boat to capsize, leaving all onboard to swim in rough seas.
Fortunately, many of their belongings and electoral material were retrieved.
Initial reports received stated that the BVR officers embarked on a journey from North Vella, where they were stationed for the duration of the recent BVR exercise.
The completion of the BVR exercise last Friday marked a significant step towards ensuring the rights of Solomon Islanders who have turned 18 after the last National General Election (NGE) in 2019 to participate in the 2024 NGE. The exercise was also to ensure eligible voters who wish to update their voter registration detail to do so.
However, bad weather condition ruined the boat journey.
The report stated said high waves and strong wind battered the boat and capsized it. However, a timely rescue by another boat from Vella saved the officers from harm and their belongings, including a bag with a laptop containing crucial BVR data.
The boat’s 75-horsepower engine sustained severe damages which left it inoperable.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of taking safety measures whilst travelling at sea.
There are other reports of boats accidents over past weekends in the waters of Vella and Ranongah.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
