The People of the Duke of York Island have received advice through the East New Britain Provincial Police Commander to obtain approval from the station if they wish to travel to Kokopo town.
This was confirmed by Governor Michael Marum following the incident of two missing boats carrying 14 adults and 11 Children.
Meanwhile, small boat operators are encouraged to ensure all necessary safety equipment are on board, with no overloading of passengers and boats must be registered before heading out to sea.
“Police with Provincial Disaster, National Fisheries Authority and NAC have been out on the lookout”, Governor Marum said.
“Members of the communities and surrounding provinces including West New Britain, New Ireland and Autonomous Region of Bougainville have been alerted.”
Governor Marum stated that the Helicopter engaged to initiate aerial search will return to base this afternoon and provide an update on today’s mission.
“PPC might call off the search operations, as it has gone past 48 hours now”, Governor Marum said.
