Seven sailors from the Republic of Fiji Navy have been suspended without pay following their involvement in a docking incident that occurred on December 19. This situation, confirmed by Commodore Humphrey Tawake, comes as investigations into the incident are ongoing.
The vessel, RFNS Timo, experienced minor damage to its stern during the docking process at Walu Bay Navy Pier. The RFNS Timo, a gift from the Australian government, was brought in to replace the RFNS Puamau, which had been decommissioned after running aground in June.
The docking incident was reportedly caused by a mix of strong winds and limited space due to nearby commercial vessels. There are claims that some of the sailors were intoxicated while on duty that day. Commodore Tawake emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that while the sailors remain part of the force, they are undergoing disciplinary action through suspension.
In addition to this, Commodore Tawake indicated that the Navy is in the process of securing permission to dispose of the RFNS Puamau, which had been grounded in the Lau waters, with court martial proceedings expected to commence this month.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety protocols and adherence to regulations within military operations, highlighting the need for thorough investigations to ensure accountability and future prevention. There is hope that these measures will lead to improved practices and safeguard the integrity of the Republic of Fiji Navy.
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