A ferry named MV Matui sank off the coast of Vanuatu after setting sail from the island of Santo to Ambae on Friday, amid very rough seas. The vessel carried more than 40 passengers and crew, but failed to arrive at its destination.
The Vanuatu government announced that one person has died and more than 30 remain missing. Prime Minister Jotham Napat’s office expressed its condolences, stating that “our hearts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones.” Fifteen passengers were reported “accounted for alive,” while a single body has been recovered. Search and rescue operations are ongoing.
An investigation into potential negligence has been launched. Officials say the loss appears to stem from strong winds and a failure to heed marine warnings, and there is a possibility of overloading the vessel.
The Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre in New Caledonia is assisting with the search, and a French Armed Forces aircraft was deployed on Sunday morning. The centre reported that 12 people were located on Sunday, and efforts will focus on the south‑east coast where currents may have carried survivors. The search continues as authorities work to locate the missing passengers and crew.
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