The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji has confirmed it has launched an investigation into the death of a 58-year-old female passenger aboard the Interlink passenger vessel MV Ohana at Suva Wharf earlier this week.
In a statement, MSAF says it is aware of the incident and has received the relevant reports.
The authority has extended its condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased, and confirmed that investigations are underway in accordance with its regulatory responsibilities.
MSAF also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring maritime safety and compliance with established safety standards across Fiji’s maritime transport sector.
Meanwhile, police have confirmed that the incident occurred on Monday, when a 58-year-old woman reportedly fainted while onboard the ferry. She was rushed to hospital but later passed away.
The incident has sparked concerns among passengers over safety procedures and emergency preparedness on board the vessel.
Witnesses told fijivillage News that there appeared to be confusion and distress during the medical emergency, with claims that there were no trained first aiders or Occupational Health and Safety officers immediately available to assist the woman.
One passenger alleged that despite the seriousness of the situation, the ferry was still allowed to depart Suva Wharf after the woman was pronounced dead, raising further questions about emergency response protocols.
In response to these claims, Interlink Shipping General Manager Adrial Prasad denied the allegations, stating that the woman appeared “fine and well” when she boarded the vessel.
Prasad said the ferry was not overcrowded and was operating within passenger capacity limits set by MSAF.
He also reassured the public that all crew members aboard MV Ohana are medically trained first responders, adding that crew members without first aid certification are not permitted to work on the vessel.
According to Prasad, a doctor was present on board at the time of the incident and provided medical assistance when the woman collapsed.
He said the doctor suggested the woman may have suffered a cardiac arrest, as she was pronounced dead shortly after the episode.
