Seven people have been reported missing after their boat capsized miles off the coast of Wewak, East Sepik Province.
The National Maritime Safety Authority issued a statement confirming this report.
Of the seven, only one was able to swim to shore.
The seven were reported missing since last Tuesday. They were travelling into Wewak from Vanimo.
It is believed that the skipper was under the influence of alcohol when they made the voyage to East Sepik Province.
The National Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre said their boat capsized between the Mushu and Robin Islands, just near Wewak town.
Following this incident, NMSA General Manager Paul Unas has issued a warning to all boat operators in the 15 maritime provinces to comply with sea safety measures.
These included overloading, carrying of extra fuel and travelling in bad weather.
However, if boat operators fail to comply NMSA said they will be penalised under the Small Craft Act.
