Tragedy in Vanuatu: One Dead and Over 30 Missing After Ferry Sinks in Rough Seas

At least one person has tragically lost their life, with more than 30 individuals still unaccounted for, following the sinking of a ferry off the coast of Vanuatu, the office of Prime Minister Jotham Napat has announced.

The inter-island vessel, known as the MV Matui, went down amid severe weather conditions on Friday while journeying between the northern islands of Ambae and Santo, reports New Zealand public broadcaster RNZ.

Out of the numerous passengers and crew members aboard, 15 survivors have been safely located, according to the official statement released on Facebook by Prime Minister Jotham Napat’s office, as active search and rescue missions persist.

Authorities in the Pacific nation noted that open-water search efforts are being reduced, shifting focus toward the south-east coast where ocean currents may have drifted survivors.

The government indicated that the disaster appears to stem from severe weather and the disregard of marine warnings, alongside potential negligence factors such as vessel overloading. A comprehensive investigation has been promised to determine the exact cause and avoid future incidents.

Meanwhile, the Reuters news agency reported that Vanuatu police, the Maritime Safety Authority, and the vessel's operator, Tui Shipping Agency, did not immediately reply to requests for comments.