Maritime Division investigates why the MV Fasefulu ran aground at Salelologa

Staff Reporters

APIA, 23 August 2023 – The Maritime Division of the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure has started an investigation into how and why the MV Fasefulu ran aground at the entrance of Salelologa channel late Monday morning.

The vessel was carrying vehicles, delivery trucks and passengers when it ran aground at approximately 11:06am on Monday, 21 August 2023 and was freed from that position at 7.30pm on same day. All vehicles were safely offloaded shortly after.

After the vessel ran aground, normal emergency procedures were followed and the passengers were evacuated using smaller vessels and transferred to the Salelologa wharf as the Captain and crew waited for technical assistance. The technical team and divers later boarded the vessel and commenced the assessment and worked to discharge the ballast waters, transfer of bilge waters and fuel to lighten the ship.

The SSC technical team then managed to perform the repair works. According to the Ministers office, a preliminary assessment into the matter has determined that there is no major damage to the vessel.

“The vessel is now watertight and has been able to sail back to Apia. The only costs associated is for the other services that were rendered to assist in the recovery operation,” said a statement from the Minister’s office.

The statement also said that the MV SSC Fasefulu did not run aground at the same location where the Nafanua patrol boat incident occurred in May 2021.

“I wish to acknowledge the members of the public who were affected by this incident. I apologize for any inconvenience caused and wish to convey our utmost appreciation for your patience and understanding during the duration of the Corporation’s recovery works,” said the Minister of Shipping, Olo Fiti Vaai.