MOROBE Police boss has warned all small craft operators to obey warnings issued by the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) and other lawful authorities after police received reports of a tragic maritime incident that occurred on Thursday 23rd July 2026 at 10:00pm at Quambu Point, Sialum Station.
Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Chief Superintendent, Samson Siguyaru said this when a family of five travelling by a small craft during rough sea conditions capsized where a father and his eldest daughter lost their lives and are now at the Butaweng Mortuary.
PPC Siguyaru also confirmed that a young boy and a young girl remained missing at sea, while the mother survived. The skipper and his two crew members have been identified, and police investigations are underway.
This incident serves as a serious reminder to all small craft operators that warnings issued by the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) and other lawful authorities must be obeyed. Despite repeated weather warnings, some operators continue to ignore these directives, placing the lives of passengers at unacceptable risk.
“Morobe police are directing all small craft operators throughout the province to strictly comply with all NMSA
safety advisories, weather warnings, and lawful directions issued by police and other authorised agencies. Operators who disregard these warnings and continue to operate in unsafe conditions will face police action.
“Police officers throughout the Morobe Province have been instructed to stop, inspect, and, where sufficient evidence exists, arrest operators who deliberately violate maritime safety requirements or lawful police directions,” PPC Siguyaru said.
PPC said operators would be liable for prosecution under applicable Papua New Guinea laws, including:
-The National Maritime Safety Authority Act 2003 and regulations made under that Act, for breaches of maritime safety requirements.
-The Merchant Shipping Act 1975 (as amended), where offences relate to the unsafe operation of vessels or conduct endangering life at sea.
-Relevant provisions of the Criminal Code Act, where negligent or reckless conduct results in death, serious injury, or danger to human life.
PPC said the police would work closely with the National Maritime Safety Authority to ensure offenders are investigated and prosecuted where appropriate. He said the loss of innocent lives due to reckless disregard of safety
warning is preventable. No operator should place profit or convenience above the safety of passengers.
PPC said Morobe Provincial Police Command extend their deepest condolences to the bereaved family and continue to support search efforts for the two missing children.