Human error blamed for ship grounding – FBC News

The investigation into two recent separate incidents at sea linked to Goundar Shipping Limited vessels points to human error.

Fiji Maritime Safety Authority chief executive Joeli Cawaki revealed the preliminary findings of the investigation in an interview today.

The incident involved the grounding of a Goundar vessel between Ovalau and Natovi and another on a reef near the island of Moala in the Lau group.

While investigations are ongoing, Cawaki says it is clear that poor handling of the two vessels by the sailors led to the grounding incidents.

He said MSAF would work to determine how it could address those responsible for both incidents once the investigation was complete.

He adds that MSAF will make a strong effort to verify the qualifications of seafarers to protect the lives of travelers.

The MSAF CEO also warned that those responsible risk losing their licenses.

Passengers were on board both vessels when the various incidents occurred, and both vessels have since been recovered.