By Katalina Siasau

A search remains underway for one man still missing at sea, Deputy Commissioner and Head of Tonga Police Maritime, 'Atunaisa Taumoepeau, confirmed to Matangi Tonga this morning, 20 February 2026.

The update follows the rescue yesterday morning of two Tongans who had been missing at sea for more than ten days. They were located by a Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) P-8A Poseidon aircraft. Tonga Police have not yet issued a public statement on the matter.

Taumoepeau told Matangi Tonga that the operation has not been declared concluded.

The search is being conducted through a joint effort involving the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), Tonga Police Maritime, and several local agencies.

He said details about the identity of the missing person are considered “critical information” and have not been released.

Inspector Kisina of Tonga Police Maritime is leading and coordinating the search and rescue operation. Support is also being provided by the Tonga Navy, Tonga Meteorology Services, and various private agencies that have offered assistance, Taumoepeau said.

“We are all waiting upon the Maritime before the operation is suspended,” Deputy Commissioner Taumoepeau said.

Authorities continue to coordinate efforts as the search remains ongoing.

Meanwhile, an NZDF spokesperson tol Matangi Tonga today that the aerial search had not spotted a third person. “Crew on the P-8A did a search over Ata Island on Thursday but saw no sign of a third person.”