The Bougainville Police Service has renewed calls for justice in the disappearance of seafarer Richard Samai, citing serious concerns over non-cooperation by the vessel’s crew and management.
First Constable Ian Tamahin of the Criminal Investigation Division at Arawa Police Station said the conduct of those involved had significantly delayed investigations.
Read earlier story on: https://www.thepngsun.com/mysterious-disappearance-of-mv-emilia-spirits-chief-engineer-at-buka-sea/
“The disappearance of Richard Samai is a matter of grave concern to the Bougainville Police Service, and the lack of cooperation from the vessel’s captain, crew, and company management has significantly hindered our investigation,” CID Tamahin said in a report.
Mr. Samai, the Chief Engineer of the MV Emilia Spirit, was reported missing on 16 December 2025.
He was last seen on the night of 15 December after boarding the vessel at Loloho Port bound for Buka. The vessel was operating with only one functioning engine.
Police said Digicel records show Mr. Samai’s last mobile phone signal was detected between Loloho and Mabiri Point before it went silent.
His absence was discovered the following morning when crew members searched for him to assist with engine repairs.
Police say despite shoreline searches along Loloho, Rorovana, Mabiri and Wakunai, no trace of Mr. Samai was found.
CID Tamahin said the vessel later joined the search but failed to properly coordinate with shore teams.
“Despite repeated attempts, police were denied access to the MV Emilia Spirit, its captain, and its crew, which delayed critical examination of the vessel and the circumstances surrounding Mr. Samai’s disappearance,” he said in a police brief.
Police further alleged that RAMS management instructed the vessel to leave Bougainville waters and return to Rabaul without reporting to Buka Police.
“The decision by RAMS management to instruct the vessel to leave Bougainville waters without reporting to Buka Police may amount to obstruction and requires immediate inquiry,” CID Tamahin said.
Bougainville Police have recommended that the MV Emilia Spirit be urgently recalled to Loloho Port, all crew members interviewed, and the vessel fully examined.
Police also want telecommunications data analyzed to help determine Mr. Samai’s last known location.
“Bougainville Police must assert jurisdiction to ensure transparency, establish accountability, and determine what happened to Mr. Samai between Loloho and Mabiri Point,” he said.
Police said investigations remain ongoing as the family of the missing seafarer continues to seek answers.