Search continues for missing fisherman [1]
Monday, May 18, 2015 - 18:11
Rev. Sioeli Finau (63) from Nukunuku is the fisherman who remains missing since heading out to Malinoa Island, off Tongatapu on Monday, 11 May.
Tonga Police in releasing his name said today that an aerial search of the area on Saturday, 16 May by a French Air Force aircraft from Noumea had not spotted him.
Tonga Navy's VOEA Savea patrol boat has also been searching the area. Navy and police officers who carried out a ground search on Malinoa Island reported no sighting of him or his boat.
Rev. Finau left Patangata to Malinoa for a day of fishing on a 25ft green and grey coloured 40-horsepower engine boat last week. On Wednesday, 13 May when he had not returned his family reported him missing to the police.
He is a Minister for the Free Wesleyan Church, at Nukunuku, Hihifo.
Police said the search was continuing and appealed for anyone who is out fishing to make contact if they sight the missing boat.