One person has died and more than 30 are unaccounted for after an inter-island ferry sank off the coast of Vanuatu, the nation’s Government said.
Search and rescue personnel are scouring the coastline in a desperate bid to find survivors.
The MV Matui sank on Friday in rough seas between the islands of Ambae and Santo with more than 40 crew and passengers on board.
Fifteen people have been found alive, one body has been recovered, and there are grave fears for the remainder of those on board.
In a statement today, Vanuatu's Ministry of the Prime Minister said the sinking "appears to be the result of strong winds and marine warnings not being heeded, and possibly of negligence, including overloading of the vessel".
According to MP for Lunganville Matai Seremiah, the search has moved from open water to the south-east coast, where currents may have carried survivors.
The Prime Minister's office warned ship owners to ensure their vessels are seaworthy with the right safety equipment, including communications systems.
"To the survivors, we pray for your strength and recovery. To the families of those missing and those we have lost, please know that the nation stands with you in this time of grief."
Police say one person swam to Santo, and the vessel LC Mahalia found several more survivors.
Flying doctor Mark Turnbull was able to throw life jackets to five people floating at sea.
The Government is promising a full investigation.
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