30th November 2018 A successful Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise led by Tonga Police and supported by key partners was held on Monday 26th of November 2018, with the objectives of testing weaknesses and strengths within the Tonga National Search and Rescue Plan.
This is the first time that a full scale Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise has been held in Tonga, with multi-agency participation.
The Full Scale Exercise was held on the water north of Nuku‟alofa with the Command centre at Police Headquarters. The exercise scenario was designed to test the interoperability of command, control and communication as well as logistical support in a multi-agency response to a sinking passenger ferry (MV „Otuanga‟ofa).
Taumoeapeau also commended the participation of all Government key Ministries, Non-Government Agencies, individual ship owners and others who heard about the exercise and wanted to participate. “Everyone now has a clearer understanding of the importance of a Search and Rescue situation of this magnitude.
Police Search and Rescue National Commander A/Deputy Commissioner „Atunaisa Taumoepeau says, “We face unique challenges when it comes to maritime search and rescue especially with the way our small Islands are spread over the ocean. All key agencies need to be working together to build our capability and resilience to any disaster or emergency, big or small.
We identified some opportunities to improve and that was the whole point of the exercise. Preparation is key and it is important that we have the right knowledge, experience and equipment, and most importantly the right people in the right role to meet any challenges. We need to maintain and build the capability to respond quickly and professionally in a coordinated manner to any eventuality. Our business is to save lives.”
ENDS
For further Inquiries please contact: Tonga Police Media & Communication Officer, Tonga Police Headquarters, Longolongo; – Email: siaadams@gmail.com phone (676) 23 323 EXT. 125