New Zealand Navy Ship Manawanui Sinks Off Samoa, Crew Rescued After Running Aground
A Royal New Zealand Navy ship, Manawanui, has sunk off the coast of Samoa after running aground near the southern shore of Upolu during a reef survey. The incident, which marks the first loss of a New Zealand Navy ship since the Second World War, occurred on Saturday night, according to a statement by the New Zealand Defence Force.
All Crew and Passengers Safely Rescued
Commodore Shane Arndell, the maritime component commander of the New Zealand Defence Force, confirmed that all 75 crew members and passengers aboard Manawanui were safely evacuated from the vessel. Rescue efforts involved several vessels, and crew members were evacuated in lifeboats.
Concerns Over Possible Oil Spill
Samoa’s acting prime minister issued a warning late on Sunday that an oil spill was “highly probable” following the vessel’s sinking. The ship eventually capsized and is now submerged below the surface. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation to manage any environmental impact from the incident.
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