Part of cargo thrown overboard to save Gulatatae

LC Gulatatae 1 has arrived safely in Afio, Small Malaita today after it nearly sunk— forcing crew members to throw some of the cargo overboard to release seawater preventing the ship from sinking.

Director of Solomon Islands Maritime Authority Thierry Nervale confirmed that the vessel had arrived safely but only after some of its cargo was thrown overboard during its trip to South East Malaita from Honiara.

Speaking to SBMOnline, Nerval said: “From the information collected, seawater due to rough sea conditions accumulated on the deck but was not evacuating due to cargo blocking the freeports on the vessel’s sides.”

 He added: “The crew had to throw some cargo overboard to allow evacuation of seawater and get rid of some weight.”

The ship was carrying about 107 passengers and 17 crew-members.

On receiving the report, SIMA launched a search and rescue but it had since been called off.

Meanwhile, Nervale confirmed an investigation would be conducted to clarify on the loading conditions.

Most parts of the country are experiencing rain and strong wind since the weekend.