Two females among nine missing between Manus and East Sepik

Nine people travelling two weeks ago from Lorgengau back to Wewak did not reach their destination the next day.

Two females and seven males were travelling in two dinghies and made their last contact at Bipi Islands on the 14th of February before returning after selling betel nut at Lorengau.

Manus Provincial Police commander David Yapu said they are in possession of a substantial amount of money about K30, 000 from the sale.

Police believe they have either gone missing at sea or fallen victims to sea piracy, and could be robbed and left stranded on one of the islands.

He said the report reached police in Lorengau yesterday (29/02/16).

investigations of suspected sea piracy.”

“I reacted on the situation and dispatched investigation teams in two boats to the area for immediate search and rescue and possible

He said police will be conducting search around Bipi Island, along the Western reef and the Paddi islands.

“I have also appealed to the people living along those areas to immediately contact Police or Provincial Disaster office for any sighting of these people or information leading to their whereabouts.”

He added that the search is still continuing for the missing people.