No injuries were reported during a ferris wheel incident that occurred yesterday, according to Iowane Gade, the tournament director for the Wairiki Sevens. While Gade confirmed that the incident took place, he refrained from discussing the specifics surrounding how it happened, including details about the malfunction that caused the ferris wheel to stop unexpectedly mid-ride. He also chose not to disclose the identity of the operator.
Witnesses captured footage circulating on social media, which shows smoke emanating from the ferris wheel’s engine as onlookers rushed in to help stop the ride and safely assist the riders. Thankfully, all riders were able to disembark without injury.
In light of the incident, Gade announced that the ferris wheel operator has been instructed to halt operations, emphasizing that public safety is the utmost priority. The Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) officials are expected to conduct an inspection and dismantle the ride today.
Despite the unfortunate incident, Gade reassured the community that the ongoing Wairiki Sevens rugby tournament would continue as planned. The tournament, which began on Tuesday, is set to conclude on Saturday, and organizers are encouraging spectators to attend and show their support for the teams participating.
Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu confirmed the incident, stating that more details will be released in due course.
In summary, while the ferris wheel incident was concerning, the swift action taken ensured that no injuries occurred, and the community can continue to enjoy the festive atmosphere of the Wairiki Sevens tournament. This shows resilience and a commitment to safety from the organizers and authorities involved, making it a reminder of the importance of vigilance in ensuring public safety during events.
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