ABG continues search for missing Nissan–Buka vessel
The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG), through the Directorate of Disaster and Emergency, advises the public that search and rescue operations remain ongoing for a banana boat carrying three persons that departed Nissan Island on 18 July 2026 and did not arrive in Buka as scheduled.
The Directorate is coordinating efforts with the Papua New Guinea Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (PNG MRCC), local search teams, and regional emergency partners. Search operations have involved both sea patrols and aerial surveillance, while authorities in New Ireland Province and the Tanir (Tanga/Anir) Local Level Government have been placed on alert to monitor surrounding waters.
An immediate sea search occurred the afternoon of Saturday following reports that the vessel had not reached Buka. Severe south‑easterly winds and rough seas hindered visibility and vessel movement, forcing teams to suspend operations after no sightings were made.
On Sunday, 19 July, PNG MRCC provided drift modelling to refine the search area, enabling an aerial sweep between Buka and Nissan with support from a Lloyds Metals Energy helicopter. Despite extensive coverage, the missing vessel was not located. Additional search efforts coordinated through the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA), as relayed by PNG MRCC, also reported no sightings on Monday.
The New Ireland Provincial Disaster Office, the Tanir LLG, and nearby island communities — including Nuguria in the Bougainville Atolls — have been requested to continue monitoring their maritime zones and report any information that may assist the operation. A second aerial search is being arranged with PNG MRCC, subject to confirmation and favourable weather conditions.
The ABG conveys its thoughts and prayers to the families of those on board and assures them that we are doing our very best in close coordination with national and regional partners, to locate the vessel and its occupants.
The public is urged not to speculate or circulate unverified information on social media. Anyone with credible information regarding the vessel’s whereabouts is asked to immediately contact the ABG Directorate of Disaster and Emergency.
The Directorate further reminds all small‑craft operators travelling between Nissan, Buka, and surrounding waters to avoid unnecessary sea travel during current adverse weather conditions and to closely monitor official weather advisories.
The ABG Directorate of Disaster and Emergency will continue to issue verified updates as new information becomes available.
AUTHORISED BY THE SECRETARY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY GOVERNMENT
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