The Vanuatu Maritime Safety Authority (VMSA) has confirmed the end of search efforts for those still missing from the recent MV Matui tragedy.
The cargo vessel, which was used for inter-island ferrying, capsized and sank in rough seas between Santo and Ambae nine days ago, with dozens of people feared dead.
The VMSA’s deputy commissioner for international and legal affairs Lloyd Fikiasi said there are two confirmed deaths, 14 survivors and 38 people reported as missing.
He said, with the search concluded, the government would appoint an independent investigation into the sinking and safety system and civil claims by family members.
VMSA commissioner Less John Napuati told RNZ Pacific last week that the authority had never given permission for the vessel to carry passengers.
He said the VMSA would be seeking criminal charges against the captain and owners of MV Matui.
Dr Neil Baird, a maritime researcher, told the ABC that Pacific nations have among the highest rates of ferry fatalities in the world per capita.
He said the MV Matu disaster “exemplified the problem”, the ABC report said.
