The $30 million tala Guardianclass Patrol Boat, Nafanua II is “beyond economical repair”.
This is outlined in a joint statement issued by the Governments of Australia and Samoa as a result of the “unfortunate grounding” of Samoa’s Guardianclass Patrol Boat, Nafanua II in August last year.
The statement says that technical specialists from Australia were contracted to undertake the successful salvage operation, which had minimal environmental impact.
Following its arrival in Australia, a thorough assessment of Nafanua II was undertaken.
This assessment found the vessel to be beyond economical repair.
Last year former Captain of the Nafanua, Taito Sefo Hunt was disciplined by the Police and his rank was reduced from Police Superintendent to Corpor al, after being found guilty of three counts of negligence.
At that time Minister of Police Faualo Harry Schuster says the demotion in rank is quite significant for anyone in the police force.
The statement say the ownership of Nafanua II is being transferred from the Government of Samoa to the Australian Government as we look at options for disposal.
Australia remains a committed maritime security partner for Samoa, continuing to provide support to ensure the ongoing protection of Samoa’s Exclusive Economic Zone, including through collaboration with regional partners.
Australia is working closely with Samoa to address Samoa’s maritime security needs.
Australia is proud to partner with our Pacific family to enhance and coordinate continued maritime regional security.
In 2019 Australia handed over to the Samoa $30 million tala “Guardian Class Patrol Boat – Nafanua II.
