The Republic of Fiji Military Forces has concluded the investigation conducted by the ‘Board of Inquiry’ into the grounding of the Republic of Fiji Navy Ship PUAMAU at the Fulaga Reef, in the Lau group.

Commander of the RFMF Major-General Ro Jone Kalouniwai says, thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding the incident, highlighted critical deficiencies in procedures and standards within the Fiji Navy’s maritime operations, particularly in navigation practices aboard the ship.

RFMF Commander Major General Ro Jone Kalouniwai says the findings from the Board of Inquiry on the grounding of the RFNS PUAMAU indicate significant breaches, negligence, non-adherence in the application of professional and accepted navigation practices and mariner skills.

The Commander says the findings further highlighted non-compliance to accepted best bridge management processes by the Commanding Officer and his command team in the application of safety measures under such environmental conditions when in confined and hazardous waters close to Fulaga Island.

Kalouniwai adds that the BOI highlighted that certain best mariner practices and processes associated with the use of navigation equipment for situational awareness and decision making was neglected by the Commanding Officer and his bridge team.

In response to the findings, the BOI has recommended several measures to address the identified deficiencies and enhance safety in future maritime operations.

He says these recommendations include holding the Commanding Officer accountable for the ship’s grounding, ensuring comprehensive patrol briefings and navigational planning, implementing clear SSD procedures, providing all seaman officers with Navigation Books, enhancing situational awareness for commanding officers, and reviewing bridge procedures during entry into confined waters.

Kalouniwai says the RFMF is committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism and safety within the Fiji Navy.

He adds that by implementing the recommendations put forth by the BOI, they aim to prevent similar incidents and ensure the continued efficiency and effectiveness of our maritime operations.