Samoa Government officials on Tuesday mobilized efforts to contain what they described as oil leakage where the New Zealand naval survey ship HMNZS Manawanui sank.
According to the Samoa Observer newspaper, the authorities are claiming there was no evidence of oil spillage; but the Tafitoala coast has now been declared a no-go zone while authorities assess the potential danger to life and the environment.
Acting Prime Minister, Tuala Iosefo Ponifasio issued a confirmation report from Captain Dowling, New Zealand’s Commander of Operations and MPAC Chair, Fui Mau Simanu on the current situation.
He said, according to the report, there was no evidence of oil spillage on the reefs, ashore and around the area as of 10:30 am, except for small leakages of oil coming from the vessel.
He assured it had been contained using specialized equipment being deployed on-site.
The newspaper said the latest statement from the government contradicts reports from affected villagers who claim to have sighted a lot of fuel at sea from Monday.
Villagers concerned with their livelihood and the aftermath of the environmental disaster also reported turtles found dead at the reef in the area, and a lot of rubbish and debris from the unrecoverable vessel.
A video circulating on social media showed a turtle struggling to swim amongst what appeared to be oil spillage and debris on the surface.
James Atherton of Samoa Conservation Society said their rapid assessment of the Safata coast on Monday found limited signs of oil pollution or debris on the nearby shore.
He added a more thorough survey with drones is needed to be certain.
Photo: Samoa Observer
