IT has been seven days since Michael Foster, a well-known soccer player and former PNG Kapuls captain was reported missing at sea.
The current National Premier League (NPL) club player for Strikers FC was travelling with this family by dinghy from Kokopo to Bialla in Kimbe, when a disaster struck and Michael has been missing since then.
They departed Kokopo just after 8 am with 11 passengers on board (including skipper) on Monday 23rd, December 2024.
On December 23, Michael travelled with his wife (name with held) and daughter (name with held) heading for Bialla.
About 2 pm, on that same day, tragically their journey was hit by a sudden storm that capsized their dingy inside Open Bay (WNB) just outside Bakada.
They drifted for nearly three hours, and during the incident, Michael demonstrated his selflessness by ensuring his wife and daughter were safe before making the courageous decision to swim with the skipper to a nearby island to seek help. This was the last sighting of Michael.
His wife and child were rescued the following day by a passing dinghy.
Since then, an extensive rescue effort has been conducted by both provincial and local authorities, but, to date, there has been no success in locating Michael and the family’s nephew.
Michael Foster is not only a beloved family member but also a highly respected athlete in the soccer community, known for his dedication and passion for the sport.
The family is appealing to all villages and residents along the coastline to remain vigilant and report any sightings or information that may assist in locating him.
Michael was last seen wearing a red and black (each side) life jacket.
The Foster family would like all soccer families and friends to remain hopeful and continue to pray for Michael.
If you have any information, please contact the local authorities or the following family members:
Norman: 73145303
Barry: 76401922
Tagaya: 73703510
Ila: 75702370
Frank Genaia: 71907101
Your assistance and prayers are greatly appreciated during this difficult time.
Issued by the Foster Family
