Seven sailors from the Republic of Fiji Navy have been suspended without pay following their involvement in a docking incident involving the new vessel RFNS Timo on December 19. This was announced by Commander of the Republic of Fiji Navy, Commodore Humphrey Tawake, who stated that investigations are currently underway.
The RFNS Timo, which recently arrived from Australia, suffered minor damage to its stern during docking operations at the Walu Bay Navy Pier. The vessel was gifted by the Australian government to replace the $18 million RFNS Puamau, which was decommissioned after running aground in June.
According to Commodore Tawake, the incident occurred due to a combination of gusty winds and limited space for docking, compounded by the presence of commercial vessels nearby. There are allegations that some sailors may have been intoxicated at the time of the incident.
The disciplinary actions taken involve a suspension for those confirmed to be involved, but they remain members of the navy while investigations continue. The commander also mentioned that the approval process for disposing of the grounded RFNS Puamau is in motion, and preparations for a court martial are set to begin this month.
This situation highlights the importance of safety protocols and accountability in the naval forces, as well as the ongoing commitment to maintain and improve operational standards. As investigations proceed, it is hoped that essential lessons will be learned to prevent any repeat incidents in the future.
In summary, while the incident is unfortunate, it serves as a reminder of the challenges and responsibilities that come with handling naval operations, ultimately aiming to enhance safety and discipline within the armed forces.
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