No one was harmed during an incident involving a ferris wheel at the Wairiki Sevens tournament, according to tournament director Iowane Gade. While he acknowledged the event took place, Mr. Gade refrained from discussing the specifics of how the malfunction occurred.
He confirmed that all riders safely disembarked the ferris wheel, which reportedly emitted smoke from its engine. A video circulating on social media showed bystanders intervening to help halt the ride so that the passengers could exit.
To prioritize public safety, Mr. Gade stated that the ferris wheel operator has been instructed to cease operations. Additionally, the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) authority is scheduled to inspect and dismantle the ride for further evaluation.
Despite the incident, Mr. Gade assured attendees that it would not disrupt the ongoing Wairiki Sevens rugby tournament, which runs from Tuesday until Saturday. He encouraged fans to attend in large numbers to support the teams.
Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu confirmed the incident and mentioned that further details would be provided soon.
This incident, while concerning, serves as a reminder of the importance of safety at public events. The quick actions of bystanders and the prompt decision to halt the ride prevented any injuries, showcasing the community’s readiness to support each other during emergencies.
In summary, while the ferris wheel malfunctioned, all riders exited safely, and the Wairiki Sevens tournament continues as scheduled, reflecting a resilient community spirit.
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