Crew ‘safely evacuated’ after RFNS Puamau ‘grounding incident’ – Fiji Navy

RFNS Puamau was donated by the Australian Government to Fiji and commissioned last month. May 3, 2024
Photo: Facebook / Republic of Fiji Navy

The Republic of Fiji Navy (FRN) says all crew suffered and no injuries were reported following a grounding incident on Fulaga Island.

The ship is here RFNS Puamauwhich was donated by the Australian Government and commissioned last month.

Germany reported that the second patrol boat, RFNS Savenacawas immediately deployed with naval divers and engineers and “is on site, currently conducting damage assessments and interim repairs while waiting for experienced salvage operators to conduct recovery operations.”

“All crew were accounted for, no injuries were reported and all were safely evacuated RFNS Savenaca“

It said it was too early to determine the details of what happened.

“The ongoing focus is squarely on life safety, ensuring minimal environmental impact and the safe recovery of the vessel by experienced rescuers.

“It is premature to establish the details of events at this time and these matters will be further investigated as part of a formal investigation.”

Last week, the Fiji Navy announced that RFNS Puamau had conducted three days of intensive damage control and maritime survival training as part of the Maritime Safety Control Program.

“The Maritime Safety Inspection Program was delivered by RFNS Puamau crew damage control instructors, members of the West German naval training group and technical advisor to the Australian Navy.

“A drill was conducted to ensure this RFNS Puamau was ready for its first operational deployment after its recent commissioning in West Germany.

“Conducting regular exercises and assessments at sea is crucial to ensuring the shipowner’s sustainment and the ship’s operational capacity and capacity, and competence in performing a wide range of maritime tasks.”