Update on Search & Rescue Operations for missing Nissan-Buka vessel
The ABG Directorate of Disaster and Emergency, provides the following update regarding the ongoing search for a missing vessel that departed Nissan Island for Buka on Saturday, 18 July 2026, with three persons on board.
As of today, 24 July 2026, the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) have issued warnings regarding strong winds across the Bougainville region. Consequently, sea-based search operations are currently restricted and will not be possible until weather conditions improve.
The ABG Directorate of Disaster further releases the following information and asks that the public reports any sightings as follows:
- Vessel: A floater dinghy with a yellow top powered by a 60HP Yamaha engine. The boat features one mast flying an AROB flag with a red scarf (bandana) on top. It is equipped with a red light that automatically activates at night (6:00 PM).
- Onboard Items: The vessel was carrying one empty drum, one bag of cacao, two bags of copra in onion bags, a blue bingo, and two tanks (one spray-painted with blue dots).
- Persons on Board:
- Mitchell Tokiapron (Skipper): Wearing army-coloured sports shorts and an army camouflage jacket
- Darrell (Crew): Wearing a black cut t-shirt, black cargo shorts, and an army camouflage jacket.
- Horen Kapiatu (Passenger): Wearing a black t-shirt and cargo shorts, with hair tied in a band.
The MRCC and the Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) continue to broadcast information to all vessels operating in New Ireland waters. While this information remains current, there have been no confirmed sightings of the vessel to date.
The Directorate of Disaster Emergency has extended its alert network to ensure maximum coverage of the maritime zones. Current efforts include:
- New Ireland and Tanir LLG: The New Ireland Provincial Disaster Office and Tanir (Tanga/Anir) LLG are actively monitoring their maritime zones.
- Atolls and Local Coordination: Communication remains open with Nissan-Pinapel and Nuguria (Bougainville Atolls) to monitor for any sightings from their respective locations.
The Directorate of Disaster Emergency strongly reminds all small-craft operators to avoid unnecessary sea travel between Nissan, Buka, and surrounding waters due to the current adverse weather conditions. Operators must closely monitor official weather advisories before considering any travel.
The ABG continues to extend its thoughts and prayers to the families of those on board. We urge the public to refrain from circulating unverified information on social media and to rely only on official updates.
AUTHORISED BY THE SECRETARY – DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY GOVERNMENT
Photo: Pictured is the dinghy reported missing in Bougainville. Authorities are continuing search efforts to locate the vessel. Anyone with information on its whereabouts is urged to contact the Bougainville Directorate of Disaster Emergency. File photo provided.
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