ABG strengthens regional partnerships as search for missing Nissan–Buka vessel intensifies
The Autonomous Bougainville Government (ABG) advises that search coordination for the missing Nissan–Buka vessel has been significantly expanded through strengthened national and international partnerships, led by the Directorate of Disaster and Emergency under the Department of Community Government (DCG). Efforts remain focused on locating the three persons who departed Nissan Island for Buka on Saturday, 18 July 2026.
Over recent days, the Directorate has intensified operational coordination, broadened the search network and ensured that all credible information is rapidly verified through established provincial, national and regional channels.
To enhance coverage across Bougainville and neighbouring maritime areas, the Directorate has worked closely with the New Ireland Provincial Disaster Office and TANIR Local Level Government, utilising local communication networks to monitor coastal waters. A formal request has also been submitted to the National Disaster Centre for additional maritime assets to support ongoing search and rescue operations.
The Directorate has expanded the search beyond Papua New Guinea’s immediate waters. In partnership with the New Ireland Provincial Government, information regarding possible sightings around Mussau Island was assessed. The Directorate also followed up on reports from Manus Province, which—after verification with the Manus Provincial Disaster Office—were confirmed as untrue. The ABG acknowledges the swift cooperation of Manus authorities and confirms that all reported sightings will continue to be thoroughly investigated before official updates are issued.
Through coordination with the PNG Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC), the United States Coast Guard Joint Rescue Coordination Centre in Honolulu and the Honiara MRCC have been notified. The regional broadcast alert issued by PNG MRCC and JRCC remains active, requesting all mariners to maintain vigilance and report any potential sightings immediately.
Alerts have also been disseminated through the Indo‑Pacific Regional Information Sharing Platform, enabling neighbouring countries and maritime operators to support expanded search coverage across wider ocean areas.
Despite these strengthened partnerships, search operations continue to be constrained by persistent strong wind warnings across Bougainville, New Ireland and New Britain. These conditions pose significant risks to small craft and limit sea‑based search activities.
The Directorate again appeals to commercial vessels, fishing operators and coastal communities throughout Bougainville, New Ireland, the Atolls and neighbouring maritime areas to remain alert and report any credible information through the appropriate authorities. The previously issued description of the vessel and the three persons on board remains current.
The ABG acknowledges the continued support of the National Disaster Centre, PNG MRCC, Provincial Disaster Centres in New Ireland, East New Britain and Manus, and all partner agencies contributing to the search effort.
The ABG extends its thoughts and prayers to the families of those on board and urges the public to refrain from circulating unverified information on social media. Official updates will continue to be issued as new information is confirmed.
AUTHORISED BY: BELINDA-MAREE GARA-LANBONG
SECRETARY, DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY GOVERNMENT
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