All 73 passengers and crew aboard the disabled MV Akwa have been rescued and safely taken ashore at Vanikoro following a coordinated search and rescue operation involving Solomon Islands authorities and regional partners.
The Temotu Provincial Government confirmed Monday that everyone on board the vessel had been transferred to MV Helper 1 and transported to shore.
The rescue followed a mechanical problem aboard MV Akwa while it was travelling between Tikopia and Vanikoro, leaving the vessel drifting at sea.
According to the provincial government, MV Helper 1 reached the vessel at about 9pm on Sunday, while the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Patrol Boat Gizo arrived at approximately 11pm.
Patrol Boat Gizo began towing MV Akwa around midnight, with the operation progressing into the northwestern waters of Vanikoro in the early hours of Monday.
The safe transfer of all passengers and crew to MV Helper 1 was subsequently completed.
However, arrangements to transport the rescued passengers from Vanikoro to Lata are yet to be confirmed.
The provincial government said further information would be provided once the relevant authorities and operators finalised the arrangements.
It expressed relief at the successful outcome and thanked the Solomon Islands Government, RSIPF, international partners, maritime operators and other stakeholders who supported the rescue.
The Government of France provided aerial assistance, delivering medical supplies, equipment, water-making equipment and food to the stranded vessel.
Australia also deployed a Challenger aircraft to support the emergency supply operation.
The provincial government acknowledged the Government of China and the operators of the cargo vessel Sunnine 3 for diverting from its original destination to deliver water, food and other essential supplies to those aboard MV Akwa.
It also thanked the Government of Vanuatu and the operators of MV Helper 1 for their direct role in receiving and transporting the passengers safely to shore.
The owners and operators of LC Plus 1 were recognised for remaining on standby to assist, following the direction of the Rescue Coordination Centre.
The provincial government credited the RSIPF, particularly Patrol Boat Gizo and the Search and Rescue Division, for their leadership and coordination throughout the operation.
It acknowledged the challenging conditions faced by rescue personnel, including rough seas, navigational risks and the need to protect both the passengers and those involved in the rescue.
Special recognition was also given to Dr David Raja, Dr Mataki, Chief Moumudou and members of the rescue coordination network for their communication and efforts to coordinate assistance.
The provincial government thanked the families, churches, communities and members of the public who supported the passengers and their relatives during the anxious wait for news.
It urged families and the public to remain patient while arrangements for the passengers’ onward transportation to Lata are finalised.
The government said the successful rescue demonstrated the importance of regional cooperation, national coordination and humanitarian assistance in protecting lives during maritime emergencies.
It also extended its best wishes to all 73 rescued passengers and crew and their families following the ordeal.
