SAMOA
The Samoa Police, Prisons and Corrections Services (SPPCS) has responded to an emergency involving the grounding of the New Zealand Navy vessel HMNZS Manawanui off the southern coast of Upolu near Tafitoala last night.
SPPCS’ Maritime Unit, in collaboration with local Samoa Fire and Emergency Service and the Australian Defence Force, was promptly deployed to assist in rescue operations following the incident, SPPCS said in a statement.
The grounding occurred during a scheduled reef survey conducted by the vessel in Samoan waters.
“All 75 crew members on board the Manawanui were safely evacuated and are accounted for, with emergency personnel confirming that all crew members are safe and receiving medical attention,” SPPCS said.

The operation is being coordinated by SPPCS, Australia Defence personnel and SFESA with the assistance of the Rescue Coordination Centre New Zealand (RCCNZ). Additionally, a Royal New Zealand Air Force P8 aircraft has been deployed to support the ongoing rescue efforts.
“The SPPCS remains committed to ensuring the safety of all personnel involved and continues to collaborate closely with both local and international partners as the situation develops,” it stated.