Search called off due to lack of funds

By DOROTHY MARK
THE search for five people missing at sea after a dinghy capsized on Thursday has been called off because the relatives have run out of money to hire boats.
The dinghy carrying 16 people capsized in waters between North Coast and Karkar Island.
Relative Luak Magu said families of the missing people had been funding the search and rescue operation because the Disaster Office in Madang was unable to assist as public accounts remained closed.
Ten people made it ashore. The body of an elderly woman was found near Karkar Island on Saturday. She was buried at Kaviak village. Relatives had been looking for the five.
Madang police commander Chief Inspector Ben Neneo said the dinghy was carrying passengers, garden produce and a pig capsized between Kubugam in North Coast and Karkar Island.
Another relative, Asiwok Apuai, said the 16 people were from Keviak village on the island who had travelled to Aronis village on the mainland to gather food for a village ritual.
Apuai said the 10 who swam ashore were treated at the Gaubin Hospital.
Sumkar MP Chris Nangoi warned Karkar islanders to take extra precautions when travelling.
Nangoi warned boat operators to avoid overloading passengers and cargo and travelling in bad weather.