K Danuri fishing vessel which ran aground in Lami Bay last month successfully re-floated

The fishing vessel K Danuri that ran aground in the Lami Bay area last month was successfully re-floated to the Suva Harbour and the owners of the vessel have been issued with a removal order.

The vessel ran aground due to the strong winds experienced last month which caused the vessel to break its mooring lines and drift from where it was anchored in the Suva Harbour.

Fiji Ports Corporation Limited has stated that under the Sea Ports Management Act 2005, the owners have to remove the vessel within 21 days.

They add that the 21 days’ notice period will expire next week and failure to comply with the order will leave Fiji Ports Corporation Limited with no option but to take further action.

After 21 days Fiji Ports Corporation could remove the vessel at the owner’s cost or they can put the vessel up for sale by tender or take legal action which could lead to a fine of up to $250,000 or 10 years imprisonment.