Five survivors found after boat drifts 5,400 km in Pacific Ocean
Villagers on a Kiribati island rescued five people who disappeared during a Micronesia boat trip in July.
Five people, including two children, were rescued by villagers on Fanning Island in Kiribati on Sunday, November 1, according to the Times of India. The group had been missing since July 30, when a storm swept their boat off course during a trip between islands in the Federated States of Micronesia.
The survivors, identified as Wanis Weita, Wboy Weita, Akinis David, Paul Paul, and Tedwin Paul, had travelled approximately 5,400 kilometres from the Hall Islands in Chuuk state. The group had originally set off in a 20-foot skiff for a one-hour crossing between Murilo and Ruo.
Nursing officer Paukin Tororo told ABC that the survivors were severely dehydrated and malnourished but began showing signs of recovery after receiving intravenous fluids. Kiribati MP Kaotitaake Rakoroa said the survivors were cared for by a local Uniting Church pastor and examined by medical officials.
The fate of the other four passengers remains unknown. Chuuk State Governor Alexander Narruhn expressed gratitude that five people were found but said authorities continue to pray for the remaining four.
The US Coast Guard described the discovery as incredible and wonderful. Narruhn has begun discussions with the Kiribati government to arrange the survivors' return to Micronesia, though no timeline has been announced.