Ferry Sinking in Papua New Guinea

After Ferry Sinking in Papua New Guinea, UN Agency Voices Deep Sympathy

New York, Feb 3 2012 11:10AM
The head of the United Nations International Maritime Organization (IMO) today expressed deep sympathy to the victims of a ferry sinking off the coast of Papua New Guinea that may have claimed more than 100 lives.

MV Rabaul Queen sank yesterday, shortly after being hit by large waves while en route east of the town of Lae, according to media reports.

About 360 passengers and crew members were aboard, and around 250 are understood to have since been rescued. Search operations are still under way for the remaining passengers and crew.

In a <"http://www.imo.org/MediaCentre/PressBriefings/Pages/05-rabaul-queen.aspx">statement, IMO Secretary-General Koji Sekimizu offered his condolences to the families and friends of those caught up in the sinking.

Mr. Sekimizu thanked all those involved in rescue efforts, include Papua New Guinean and Australian rescue personnel, the Papua New Guinea Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre and merchant ships travelling in the area.

The Secretary-General also said that IMO would offer any technical assistance that Papua New Guinea might require in dealing with the disaster, especially concerning domestic ferry safety.
Feb 3 2012 11:10AM
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