Six expatriates die in boat capsizing off Lihir Island, Papua New Guinea

On Sunday, July 26, a boat carrying 12 employees of Dongsheng Investment Limited Supermarket and Hardware capsized while returning from a picnic at Malie Island near Lihir Island in New Ireland Province, Papua New Guinea. The vessel developed engine problems, and strong waves caused it to overturn, killing six expatriates – two women (one from Myanmar, one from China) and four men (three Chinese, one Myanmar). Six passengers survived, including one Nepali and two Chinese nationals, and were taken to Lihir Medical Centre for treatment.

New Ireland Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent Albert Beli confirmed the deaths and the survivors, and announced an investigative team to determine the cause and any further action. He urged operators of small craft to heed weather warnings, citing recent similar incidents.