The PNG Defence Force’s Maritime Element, yesterday intercepted what seemed to be a Chinese vessel, between Kavieng and Manus, after a routine patrol noticed suspicious movement onboard.
Sources from the Lombrum Naval Base said 8 crew members of the unnamed vessel, have been detained, one of whom is currently admitted at the Kavieng General Hospital, after receiving gunshot wounds.
The vessel is believed to be operating illegally in PNG waters, with the source saying the Navy took aggressive action after non-compliance by the crew who refused to allow the navy to board the ship.
At present, all crew members are being interrogated by PNG Customs officials with assistance from the Australian Federal Police.
In 2017, the same vessel was intercepted in the Milne Bay waters, with cocaine also being seized from the vessel.
More information will be released once investigations conclude.
