RSIPV GIZO RESPONDS TO MARITIME DISTRESS AND SUPPORTS RESCUE OF 73 PEOPLE ABOARD MV AWKA

The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), through its Police Maritime Division, has successfully responded to a maritime distress incident involving MV AWKA after the vessel suffered a complete engine failure and was left drifting at sea between Tikopia and Vanikoro in Temotu Province.

The operation saw RSIPV Gizo diverted from its scheduled regional fisheries surveillance and maritime security duties under Operation Kurukuru 2026 to respond to the emergency and assist the distressed vessel, its passengers and crew.

On 10 October 2026 at 12:00 midday, RSIPV Gizo departed Aola Patrol Boat Base in Honiara to undertake the rescue mission. The patrol boat travelled more than 400 nautical miles through challenging sea conditions before reaching MV AWKA, located approximately 10.6 nautical miles from Tevai Island, Vanikoro.

According to the Commanding Officer of RSIPV Gizo, Superintendent Derick Naotoro, the voyage and rescue operation presented significant challenges, with the crew confronting rough seas, swells of approximately three metres and winds reaching around 30 knots.

Despite the difficult conditions, the crew remained committed to their mission, demonstrating courage, professionalism and determination in responding to the emergency. Their priority was to assist the distressed vessel and ensure the safety of those on board.

Commander of RSIPF Police Maritime, Nevol Soko, acknowledged the coordinated efforts of the relevant agencies and stakeholders, particularly the Solomon Islands Maritime Authority (SIMA) and the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO), whose cooperation supported the planning and coordination of the response.

Commander Soko highlighted that maritime rescue operations are never straightforward, especially when they involve long distances, remote island locations, unpredictable weather and challenging sea conditions. Such circumstances require careful planning, effective communication, sound judgement and timely decision-making.

He commended Superintendent Naotoro and the crew of RSIPV Gizo for applying their maritime training and operational experience in real-life conditions. Their professionalism and ability to make sound decisions under pressure were important elements in achieving a successful outcome.

The operation also demonstrated the importance of cooperation between national authorities and regional partners when responding to emergencies across the Pacific's vast maritime environment.

Commander Soko further acknowledged the contribution of the Australian overflight and the vessels MV HELPR 1 and SUNNINE 3, which were already at the scene when RSIPV Gizo arrived.

Their presence and cooperation supported the overall rescue response, highlighting the value of communication, coordination and shared commitment among those involved in maritime emergency assistance.

Through the combined efforts of the personnel and supporting vessels, 73 people, including 15 crew members, were successfully rescued.

Some passengers were disembarked at Vanikoro, while the majority were transported to Lata, the provincial capital of Temotu Province, aboard the Vanuatu-supported medical and rescue vessel MV HELPR 1.

The successful rescue represents an important outcome for the safety of the passengers and crew and reinforces the importance of having trained maritime personnel and capable patrol assets ready to respond when emergencies arise at sea.

Commander Soko expressed his appreciation to Superintendent Naotoro and all members of the RSIPV Gizo crew for their outstanding service, commitment and dedication throughout the operation.

He noted that the successful outcome reflected the commanding officer's leadership, the crew's professionalism, sound operational judgement and the effective coordination of the rescue effort.

The operation also serves as a reminder that the work of maritime officers extends beyond routine patrols and law enforcement. They are also called upon to protect lives, respond to emergencies and provide assistance to people in distress, often under difficult and unpredictable conditions.

Following the completion of the rescue mission, RSIPV Gizo departed Lata on 13 October 2026 to resume its original maritime security patrol duties in support of Operation Kurukuru 2026.

The diversion of the patrol boat to respond to MV AWKA demonstrates the RSIPF's commitment to balancing national and regional maritime security responsibilities with its fundamental duty to protect human life at sea.

The RSIPF acknowledges all agencies, supporting vessels and personnel who contributed to the successful operation.

Their collective efforts demonstrate the importance of strong partnerships and coordinated action in safeguarding lives throughout Solomon Islands' extensive maritime domain.

The successful rescue of 73 people is a strong reminder that, regardless of distance or difficult sea conditions, saving lives at sea remains a shared responsibility and a vital part of maritime service.