EAST New Britain (ENB) Provincial Police Commander (PPC), Superintendent Amanda Kates, confirmed that those of have perished in the boat tragedy of 18 July, were the victims of drowning and there was no foul play involved.
Superintendent Kates appealed to the people not to believe speculation and rumors that is quite often untrue.
“At this point, it is important to make public, for the families, the provincial community and the country, that the Coroner has confirmed that all those who perished were the victims of drowning and there was no foul play involved,” Superintendent Kates said.
In relation to the coronial investigation by Police into the capsize of the boats and loss of life, Superintendent Kates said the process is ongoing and thorough.
“Vessels are to being used to recreate the journey taken by the families to better understand direction, wave patterns and currents,” Superintendent Kates said.
“Police are taking statements from residents of Pidgen Island and will progress to Baai Village to again take further statements from the residents of the village.”
Superintendent Kates said that police will travel to New Ireland to take statements from those community members who searched diligently for and found the bodies on their islands.
The PPC has extended her deepest condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims and expressed her heartfelt appreciation to all who participated in the search for the 27 victims.
“This terrible human catastrophe has touched so many lives, and now with the period of time that has passed we must move forward with next steps with the families,” Superintendent Kates confirmed.
She added that the specialist Forensic Pathologist has informed the victim’s families that he has completed all 13 autopsies at the Nonga Morgue, and that he is currently preparing preliminary reports will be finished promptly.
“The preliminary reports will be presented to Investigating Officers who will then give the report to the Coroner on Monday, 3 August,” PPC said.
“From each of the preliminary reports the Coroner will issue Death Certificates and release of the body certificate to Police.”
Police will then contact family members and give them those documents.
Superintended Kates acknowledged the ENB and New Ireland communities who supported each other during the tragedy.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have suffered this terrible loss,” Superintendent Kates concluded.