Tonga Police has issued a warning to domestic ferry operators to ensure their ferries are safe and seaworthy before setting sail with passengers.

This was after the MV ‘Onemato from ‘Eua suffered technical difficulties to its steering system on route to Tongatapu, and the Police Search and Rescue boat had to assist them into Nuku’alofa, on Tuesday. 

Acting Deputy Police Commissioner ‘Atunaisa Taumopeau said today that the ferry left ‘Eua on January 12 at around 3:00pm, with 170 passengers and 17 tonnes of cargo.

He said they were expected to arrive in Nuku’alofa at 6:00pm.

However, after 7:00pm police received a call for assistance from a family member of one of the passengers, while the ferry was in the Piha channel north of Niutoua.

The Police Search and Rescue boat, 'Alotolu manned by Sgt Kisina, Senior Constable Halapua and Police Constable Tisi left for the area. Also, on board were two of the ferry operator's engineers with their tools.

ADPC Taumoepeau said that the ferry’s steering system had malfunctioned and the engineers went on board and assisted. Since it was already dark, the police patrol boat with its search lights on directed the ferry safely to Nuku’alofa, arriving after 9:00pm.

All of the passengers were safe as well as the cargo.

He warned ferry operators to ensure their compliance with safety and seaworthiness regulations, in order to avoid any similar incidents and prevent any disaster that may occur at sea. 

“This assistance operation was fortunate it went well but we advise ferry operators to be more diligent in ensuring their ferries are safe before setting sail with passengers,” he said.