Just five months after the RFNS Puamau ran aground in the Fulaga Passage, its successor, the RFNS Timo, has encountered issues due to a recent docking incident at the Walu Bay Navy Pier. The incident took place as sailors from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Naval Division were returning the ship from Australia.
The RFNS Timo was acquired as a replacement for the decommissioned RFNS Puamau, which was valued at $18 million and sustained damage after hitting a reef in the Lau region earlier this year. During the recent docking operations, the new vessel suffered minor damage to its port-side stern above the waterline.
Commander of the Republic of Fiji Navy, Commodore Humphrey Tawake, explained that the incident occurred due to a combination of gusty winds and limited docking space, which was further complicated by nearby commercial vessels. He did not dismiss the possibility of unprofessional conduct contributing to the situation. According to reports, several crew members may have been intoxicated at the time of the incident.
Commodore Tawake stated that in line with accountability measures, individuals implicated in unprofessional behavior have been detained, and an official investigation is underway to understand the full circumstances and address any issues. Within 24 hours of the incident, navy engineers assessed the damage and started repairs, which are now nearing completion, ensuring that the RFNS Timo will soon be fully operational.
The commander expressed gratitude for the Australian government’s support through the Vuvale Partnership and emphasized the importance of learning from such incidents. He noted that while the challenges faced are significant, the structural integrity of the RFNS Timo remains intact. Efforts are underway to revisit operational protocols and enhance crew training to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
This incident serves as an important reminder of the complexities involved in maritime operations and reinforces the need for ongoing improvements in professionalism and operational training.
Overall, it is a hopeful sign that the navy is addressing this situation proactively and committed to ensuring the safety and effectiveness of its operations in the future.
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