Oil Spill

Kagamuga Airport closed

In a joint conference with media today, the National Airports Corporation and airline operators, confirmed that a technical team is on the ground assessing the damage.

The oil spill is reported to be suspicious and allegedly done by locals in protest over the appointment of the Mt. Hagen Election Returning officer.

While police have begun investigations, NAC Managing Director Rex Kiponge said perpetrators will be dealt with under the Civil Aviation Act.

“Air service is vital for our people. This is the last thing NAC expects,” said Kiponge.

Evaluation Over Oil Spill Underway

The officers are from the Authority’s Marine Environment Protection department and according to NMSA, a report of the findings will be furnished before the end of this week.

The oil spill incident occurred near the Kimbe main wharf at 3am on Monday, whereby a huge volume of palm oil had reportedly leaked from one of the storage tank and into the sea.

Solomons' govt: Salvage hampered by ongoing mining

The MV Solomon Trader was blown on to a reef off the Rennell Island bay a month ago and it has spilt about 100 tonnes of heavy fuel oil.

Caretaker Prime Minister Rick Hou told media the mining company Bintan Mining Solomon Islands wanted to continue mining and loading incoming vessels.

He said chiefs on the island also wanted their people to continue to work so they can earn money for food.

But Mr Hou said restricting activity on the bay would bring significant benefits to the recovery operation.