Ferry sinks off Vanuatu with 30+ missing, one confirmed dead
At least one person dead and more than 30 missing after the MV Matui sank between Vanuatu islands on Friday.
The ferry sank in bad weather between Ambae and Santo, about 1,750 kilometres east of Australia. Fifteen people have been found alive.
Search teams worked in open waters first. The search then shifted focus to the southeast coast, where currents may have carried survivors.
Officials said strong winds and ignored marine warnings contributed to the loss. Possible overloading of the vessel also played a role.
Prime Minister Jotham Napat said the nation stands with affected families.
- At least 1 dead, 30+ missing
- Dead and missing
- 1,750 kilometres east
- Location from Australia
- 15 alive
- Survivors found
Why it mattersA major maritime disaster near Australia's region highlights risks in the Pacific and rescue operations ongoing.
AustraliaVanuatu is a close regional neighbour; the incident underscores maritime safety challenges in the Pacific near Australian waters.
Corroborated byabc.net.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 11 d ago
