The RFNS Puamau has been successfully salvaged from the reef at Fulaga by the Ratu Rabici tugboat, aided by the RFNS Savenaca. This development comes three weeks after the initial grounding incident, and two weeks of salvage efforts aimed at reducing environmental damage and preventing further harm.
The Republic of Fiji Naval Division disclosed this information after adhering to traditional protocols in Fulaga and obtaining consent from the Vanua of Ogea. The RFNS Puamau has been towed to the safer waters of Ogea Island where an in-depth damage assessment will be carried out before the next stage.
The Fiji Navy has commended the unyielding dedication of the salvage teams, which included hired experts both locally and internationally, RFNS Savenaca ships crew, Navy divers, and Navy engineers. They managed to work under difficult conditions, and their efforts were buoyed by the continued support of partners and stakeholders who contributed to the successful recovery operation.
The Navy also expressed deep gratitude to the Vanua for their ongoing backing and well wishes. The Board of Inquiry is persistent with their examination of the grounding incident, aiming to establish the facts surrounding the matter and make suggestions based on their findings.