POLICE on Tuesday begun scaling down their search for three men who went missing on 31 December 2018 when the boat they’re travelling capsized outside Seghe in Marovo lagoon, Western Province.
“The decision to scale down the police operation to search for the trio has been made on grounds that police and communities in Western Province have exhausted all means to search for the three persons,” Assistant Commissioner (AC) for Provincial Police, Joseph Maneluguexplained.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt sympathy to relatives of the three missing persons that officers and volunteers for the search have tried their best but could not find them,” he added.
“But I appeal to the public, especially coastal people in Western Province and other provinces to report any sightings of the three.”
Manelugu also thanked officers and volunteers who have involved in the search.
“These people have committed and dedicated themselves since day one of the search.
“They involved in diving and searched along the rough seas in the hope to find the missing persons.
“Thank you for the hard work you have shown to this operation.”
The boat carrying the three missing men left Noro town around 3:30pm to Seghe when it capsized.
It was carrying six males and two females; all adults.
The boat has been powered by a 40 horse-power Yamaha Engine.
One person died in the tragedy, while four others, including the two women, survived.
Police say one of the obstacles to the search was the bad weather.
