By Katalina Siasau

The Tonga Police Maritime has suspended its search and rescue operation for a man reported missing at sea after no new information was uncovered following the rescue of his two companions last Wednesday, 18 February.

Police Deputy Commissioner ‘Atunaisa Taumoepeau confirmed to Matangi Tonga today, that the search was officially called off on Friday, 20 February 2026.

The missing man had been travelling with two other men who were rescued by the New Zealand navy on 18 February, after they were located by a Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8A Poseidon aircraft during an aerial search operation.

The search for the third man continued for two and a half days with assistance from the New Zealand Defence Force before it was suspended.

“We have suspended the search due to the lack of further information,” Taumoepeau said. “If any significant new information comes to light, we are prepared to resume operations," he added.

Police did not identify these men or release any details about why they had travelled far out to sea. 

“The circumstances surrounding this incident remain under investigation,” he said.

The 11.5-metre wooden boat, Mysterious Wonder, departed Tongatapu on 8 February. Authorities were alerted on 17 February, that the vessel was missing. The two rescued men were found approximately 105 nautical miles south of Tonga the following day.

Matangi Tonga contacted the family of one of the survivors, who declined to be interviewed or to release his name. A close family member said that, “He is still recovering physically and mentally."

“This has been an extremely difficult time for all of us, and we are focusing on his health and wellbeing.”