Six fishermen experienced a harrowing journey at sea when their fishing vessel, the Antwan, ran aground near Suva on Tuesday night, compelling them to evacuate the ship. The crew, consisting of Joseva Veremalua, Sanaila Mudunavosa, Jone Vakarewa, Kameli Matai, Joseva Tagi, and Marika Soko, managed to escape in a life raft and reached Naitonitoni in Navua, where they are currently recuperating.
The Antwan, owned by Saheb Holdings Ltd, had set sail from Suva earlier in the week. Unfortunately, adverse weather conditions forced the crew to seek refuge off Beqa Island. While fishing on Tuesday evening, severe seas drove the vessel onto the reef. As the ship began to take on water and tilt dangerously, Captain Jone Vakarewa made an emergency distress call. He recounted the moment of utter trepidation as the crew prepared to abandon ship, expressing their fears amid the chaos.
The timely arrival of winds and currents was crucial in guiding the crew to safety. Despite the frightening experience, luck was on their side, and no injuries were reported. A subsequent medical evaluation at Navua Hospital confirmed that all crew members were fit for discharge. Sheik Saheb, president of Saheb Holdings Ltd, expressed gratitude for the equipment onboard, including flares, which adhered to Marine Department standards and contributed to the crew’s safe return.
Assistance from local authorities was instrumental in the rescue effort. The patrol boat Kikau and container vessel Forum Samoa actively searched the waters from late Tuesday night until early Wednesday morning, although no visual signals were flagged. However, Captain Vakarewa’s report of sighting lights in the distance offered reassurance that help was on its way.
Additionally, a wreckage inspection team will be dispatched soon to assess the damage to the Antwan. This incident highlights the importance of safety regulations and collaboration among marine authorities, ensuring that lives are protected even in the face of natural adversities.
Overall, the incident serves as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of the fishermen and the supportive network that came together to ensure their return to safety. The crew’s ordeal may have been terrifying, but their survival displays a sense of hope and community resilience in challenging times.
Leave a comment